Anutin's Triad for Security: Strengthening ASEAN Plus Meetings!

Anutin's Triad for Security: Strengthening ASEAN Plus Meetings!

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul presented his vision for the future of cooperation between ASEAN and the Plus Three countries - China, Japan and South Korea - at the ASEAN Plus Three Summit today. Anutin emphasized that strengthening security is essential in three key areas: financial security, digital security and human security. In doing so, he aims to strengthen cooperation and resilience in the region, which has been severely tested since the 1997 financial crisis and up until the current COVID-19 pandemic.  Naevna reports that the Prime Minister proposed the concept of the “Three Securities Approach”.

What is hidden behind this approach? First, financial security: Anutin plans to improve the Chiang Mai Initiative and launch a “Rapid Financing Facility”. This is intended to help ASEAN countries respond quickly to financial crises. Secondly, digital security: Here he wants to stimulate the digital economy and support the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA). Finally, it is about human security, where Anutin leads important measures to combat fraud and improve food security through smart agriculture.

The role of ASEAN centers

Another key point in Anutin's speech was the use of the ASEAN centers based in Thailand. These facilities are intended not only to improve the quality of life of citizens but also to promote sustainable development. This means they can play a crucial role in supporting green finance and the transition to clean energy. Anutin underlined the importance of these centers for the future of the region and at the same time acknowledged the proactive role of the Plus Three partners.

Anutin will represent Thailand as a leading force and work to strengthen cooperation within ASEAN and at the global level. He said Thailand will actively stimulate regional sustainability while promoting initiatives to develop digital technologies to meet future challenges. The Prime Minister will also attend the 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Summit on Monday to further promote free trade. He will strive to achieve tangible results for companies and the population.  The Sun has also reported that Anutin is also planning bilateral meetings with regional leaders to deepen cooperation.

Long-term perspectives

The ASEAN Plus Three Initiative has been an essential part of economic, political and social cooperation in the region since its inception in 1997. The framework included significant achievements in trade, investment and food security. The aim is to further promote regional economic integration and stability in East Asia. At the international level, the Plus Three countries are interested in ASEAN because of the region's numerous economic opportunities and strategically important location. The ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Work Plan 2025-2027 focuses on public health, small and medium-sized enterprises, digital economy and sustainable energy, setting the stage for future-oriented growth, even in times of rising trade tensions. Seasia makes it clear that despite these challenges, growth of 4.2% is forecast for 2025.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Anutin's efforts to increase cooperation within the ASEAN Plus Three framework represent a promising step towards a stronger, more stable and sustainable region.