Bangkok: "Maris" reiterates "Paethongtarn's" government aims to enter the OECD as a bridge connecting developing countries, reveals TDRI expects GDP to grow by 1.6%, reforms the country to be comparable to international standards, confirms hope to enter BRICS as soon as possible, denies dividing political groups but cooperates in various forums for sustainable development. According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Maris Sengiampong, Minister of Foreign Affairs, gave an interview to the media at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the launch of Thailand's accession process to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The event, held on 30 October 2024, featured the presence of HE Mr. Mathias Cormann, Secretary-General of the OECD. Mr. Maris emphasized the government's ambition to bridge developing countries and reform Thailand to align with international standards. In his address, Mr. Maris noted that the OECD Secretary-General's official visit marked the beginning of Thailand's membe rship process. Discussions involved key government figures, including the Prime Minister, the Minister of Finance, and other relevant agencies, to gather insights and assess Thailand's readiness for OECD membership. The intent is to benefit from enhanced competition in the business sector, address the middle-income trap, and improve the populace's quality of life through necessary political, economic, and social reforms. Mr. Maris highlighted that joining the OECD could increase Thailand's GDP growth by 1.6%, as estimated by the Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI). The membership would require adopting certain legal instruments, thus promoting transparency and standardization in line with international norms. This move is seen as a strategic effort to elevate Thailand's global standing and contribute to broader international cooperation. He further explained that the OECD's desire to include Thailand underscores its shift from being perceived as a "Rich Man Club" to embracing developing nations. This aligns with Thailand's aspirations to influence global discourse and advocate for developing countries. Mr. Maris emphasized Thailand's role in fostering connections across various regional frameworks, including ASEAN, BIMSTEC, APEC, and ACD, resonating with the government's policy agenda. Addressing concerns about domestic preparedness for OECD membership, Mr. Maris assured that Thailand is already on a path towards professional development and reform. The timeframe for joining the OECD aligns with the National Economic and Social Development Council's five-year goal, with the Foreign Ministry actively supporting and facilitating the process. Mr. Maris also addressed Thailand's interest in joining the BRICS group, clarifying that it complements the OECD membership pursuit. He reiterated the government's focus on fostering cooperative development rather than political alliances, emphasizing dialogue for sustainable growth and minimizing political divisions. In response to questions about BRICS members hip progress, Mr. Maris noted the lack of formal notification but affirmed Thailand's commitment to joining the group. The timeline and status depend on the official processes, which Thailand is prepared to respect and engage with to become a member or partner.
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