On 29 May 2025, in Tokyo, Japan, H.E. Mr. Maris Sangiampongsa, Minister of Foreign Affairs, delivered a keynote speech at the 30^th Nikkei Forum Future of Asia, held under the theme “Asia’s Challenge in a Turbulent World”. Nikkei Forum is a well-known regional forum that is attended annually by leaders of governments, international organisations, major businesses and leading journalists and academics, to share their perspectives and visions on regional and global economic trends. This year, the forum is attended by Heads of Governments of Lao PDR, Palau, Cambodia, Bangladesh and Japan, as well as ministerial-level representatives from Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, the Philippines and Thailand.

In his keynote speech, Foreign Minister Maris emphasised the need for unity and cooperation in Asia, in order to build a resilient future amidst increasing geopolitical and geoeconomic competition and uncertainties. He then outlined five strategic priorities for Thailand that are geared to support for Asia’s growth and prosperity, namely; (1) trade and investment, deepening economic integration, and elevating standards such as by Thailand’s OECD accession process, (2) building resilient and smart supply chains, to drive the global value chain, (3) encouraging the green transition and sustainable growth, noting Japan’s key role in Thailand’s automotive industry, (4) the digital transformation and future of work, through developing digital technologies and AI in Thailand and ASEAN, and (5) people development in various aspects, including health, culture, and creativity, such as through Thailand’s soft power strategy.

Foreign Minister Maris also stated that the wide-range and complexity of today’s crises present an opportunity for Asia’s leadership. While the necessity of upholding the multilateral global governance and trading system is as important as ever at this time, where Thailand will play a bridge-building role across frameworks, towards promoting understanding between them, and for Asia’s voice. Thailand is committed to addressing regional challenges, and is well-positioned as a reliable partner in the region for mutual prosperity.