Bangkok, December 2, 2024 – Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn, Executive Director of the Mekong Institute (MI), met with representatives from the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) to discuss strengthening GMS cooperation. FTI, which currently holds the Chairmanship of the GMS Business Council (GMS-BC), was represented by Mr. Vathit Chokwatana, FTI Vice Chairman for ASEAN and Logistics; Mr. Panitarn Pavorolavidya, FTI Deputy Secretary-General; Mr. Thanawat Chitbanterngpan, Assistant Secretary of the ASEAN and Logistics Committee; and Mrs. Wariya Pisuchpen, Director of the Foreign Affairs Department.

The meeting centered on MI’s renewed engagement with the GMS-BC and explored opportunities to strengthen the partnerships between the private sector across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and ASEAN. Key topics included advancing regional economic development in alignment with the GMS 2030 agenda and recent outcomes from the GMS Leaders’ Summit. 

Mr. Suriyan proposed that MI support the GMS-BC in developing mechanisms to enhance private sector representation within the GMS program, particularly in critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, transport, digitalization, and innovation. Additionally, MI aims to strengthen private sector involvement in the ACMECS initiatives.

This partnership underscores MI’s commitment to fostering inclusive economic growth in the region through strengthened collaboration between public and private sectors.