Cebu city: The Prime Minister of Thailand is set to fly to the Philippines tomorrow to emphasize Thailand's pivotal role in ASEAN as a "connector for cooperation" during a time of global volatility. This announcement comes as the Prime Minister prepares to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit, scheduled from May 7-9, 2026, in Cebu City. The summit aims to leverage ASEAN's tangible outcomes for the benefit of the Thai population. According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the summit will be attended by ASEAN leaders and high-level representatives, including notable figures such as His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei Darussalam, Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia, and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the Philippines. Other attendees include Prime Minister Sonxay Siphandon of Laos, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, and ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kau Kim Huan, among others. Representatives from Myanmar and the Asian Develop ment Bank (ADB) are also expected as guests of the Chair. The meeting takes place against a backdrop of global instability, characterized by conflicts in various regions and geopolitical, economic, and security pressures impacting ASEAN countries. The summit will serve as a platform to shape the region's future, focusing on connecting regional cooperation with the lives of citizens in each ASEAN country. Key discussions will revolve around addressing the impacts of the Middle Eastern situation, energy and food security, and the safety of ASEAN citizens, alongside cooperation in adapting to a rapidly changing global landscape. From Thailand's perspective, the government aims to elevate its status to that of a "cooperation link," concentrating on crucial issues like energy security, sustainable food access, and regional public safety. The Prime Minister plans to engage in discussions on these topics within both multilateral and bilateral frameworks, employing diplomatic strategies to maintain balanced relatio nships. These efforts are expected to yield tangible results in economic, security, and cross-border challenges.
Menu