On 9 December 2025, Mr. Chettaphan Maksamphan, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, jointly delivered remarks with Ms. Chung Eui-hae,Deputy Minister for Political Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the ROK, and SOM Representatives of Japan and China at the Opening Session of the 22nd East Asia Forum under the theme “Advancing Digitalisation and Innovation for a Resilient and Inclusive East Asia“, which the Ministry hosted in Bangkok to facilitate discussions on strengthening digital and innovation cooperation within the ASEAN Plus Three framework. The event was attended by 80 participants from ASEAN Plus Three countries, including government agencies, private sector, academia, and international organisations.

The Deputy Permanent Secretary highlighted ways forward to advance digital and innovation partnerships among ASEAN Plus Three countries. Panelists shared in the seminar their respective national policy and best practices in enhancing digital public services and underscored the importance of empowering MSMEs with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy. They also highlighted the need for whole-of-society approaches and a shared responsibility among all stakeholders to ensure that citizens are well-prepared to deal with cyber threats and a safe digital environment is fostered.

This is the first time Thailand hosted the East Asia Forum, supported by the ASEAN-Korea Cooperation Fund, to strengthen ASEAN Plus Three cooperation and advance the vision of a resilient and future-ready East Asia community.