The Thai government has reiterated its call for the swift conclusion of the Establishment Agreement of the ASEAN Centre for Public Health Emergencies and Emerging Diseases (ACPHEED), with a view to facilitating the signing ceremony at the 47th ASEAN Summit later this year.
In a statement released on July 5, 2025, Mrs. Pawaree Xuto Chaipatiyut, Deputy Director-General of the Department of ASEAN Affairs, urged the trilateral meeting of host countries to expedite the conclusion of the ACPHEED Establishment Agreement. The meeting, which took place during the 19th Senior Officials' Meeting on Health Development in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, saw attendance from Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
The ACPHEED was established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, with ASEAN leaders agreeing to set up the centre in November 2020. The initiative aims to strengthen the regional health architecture, security, and resilience by providing a platform for public health emergencies and emerging diseases.
Thailand has been designated to host the ACPHEED for Response, while Indonesia will host it for Detection, and Vietnam will host it for Prevention. Once established, the centre will play a crucial role in facilitating cooperation among ASEAN member states on public health matters.
The Thai government's emphasis on expediting the conclusion of the ACPHEED Establishment Agreement reflects its commitment to regional cooperation and preparedness in addressing emerging health challenges. The successful implementation of the centre will undoubtedly contribute to enhancing the overall health security and resilience of the region.
As the 47th ASEAN Summit approaches, Thailand's efforts to facilitate a swift conclusion to the ACPHEED Establishment Agreement are expected to yield positive results. With the signing ceremony on the horizon, regional leaders can look forward to strengthened cooperation on public health matters, ultimately benefiting the well-being and stability of the entire region.
Conclusion:
The Thai government's push for expediting the conclusion of the ACPHEED Establishment Agreement highlights its commitment to regional cooperation and preparedness in addressing emerging health challenges. With Thailand's hosting roles for Response, Detection, and Prevention, the centre is poised to play a vital role in enhancing the overall health security and resilience of the region.