The 20-year "5S" Foreign Affairs Masterplan has taken a significant step forward with the recent ASEAN-China Innovative Business Forum 2025, held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The event, organised by the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC) in collaboration with various government agencies, diplomatic corps, and private sector representatives, brought together approximately 200 participants to discuss climate investment and green enterprises.
"We are committed to creating a sustainable and environmentally responsible future," said Mr. Paisan Rupanichkij, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, who delivered the opening remarks at the forum. "Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and it requires strong collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society to address."
The event highlighted the crucial link between economic growth, technology, innovation, and climate action as essential tools for advancing sustainable development at both regional and global levels. ASEAN and China, as leading actors in economic growth in the region, are committed to the shared vision of creating a green future, reflected in the "Green ASEAN" goal and China's Global Development Initiative (GDI).
Thailand, in particular, has reaffirmed its commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net zero by 2065. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs sees this as an opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation on climate change mitigation and adaptation.
A Growing Partnership
The ASEAN-China relationship has been evolving over the past two decades, with increasing emphasis on economic cooperation, trade, and investment. In recent years, there have been significant developments in the areas of green finance, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
According to a report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the ASEAN region is expected to see significant growth in green finance over the next five years, with investments reaching $150 billion by 2025. China is expected to play a key role in this growth, with the country's Global Development Initiative (GDI) aiming to mobilize $1 trillion in green investments by 2030.
Key Takeaways
Climate change mitigation and adaptation are critical for sustainable development in the region.
ASEAN and China have committed to creating a green future through regional cooperation.
The ASEAN-China Innovative Business Forum 2025 has provided an opportunity for stakeholders to discuss climate investment and green enterprises.
Thailand's commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and net zero by 2065 is expected to be strengthened through regional cooperation.
Expert Insights
According to Dr. Kavita Suri, Senior Fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), "The ASEAN-China relationship has the potential to drive significant growth in green finance and sustainable development in the region."
"The forum provided a valuable platform for stakeholders to discuss climate investment and green enterprises," adds Mr. Tan Sri Mohd Amran, Chairman of the Board of the Asia Foundation. "We need to see more concrete action on this front to address the pressing issue of climate change."