In a significant step towards strengthening regional ties, Thailand successfully chaired the second Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Senior Officials' Meeting on 18 June 2025, marking the first in-person stand-alone ACD SOM since the COVID-19 pandemic. This meeting comes ahead of the ACD High-level Conference on Global Fiscal and Financial Architecture and the 20th ACD Ministerial Meeting scheduled to take place in Bangkok later this year.
The ACD, launched in 2002 by Thailand, has grown to comprise 35 member states and serves as a pan-Asia cooperation and policy dialogue forum aimed at promoting mutual understanding, trust, and interest among Asian countries, while addressing global challenges. This year, Thailand takes the helm of the ACD under the theme "Fostering Asia's Sustainable Growth and Future through Innovation."
At the second ACD Senior Officials' Meeting, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Paisan Rupanichkij, effectively chaired the discussion, building on the momentum set by the first ACD SOM Chaired by Thailand in February 2025. The senior officials tackled critical issues relating to enhancing cooperation between member states, including the potential transformation of the ACD into a regional organization and collaboration with other organizations such as the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) on sports and culture.
The meeting also highlighted Thailand's commitment to fostering stronger partnerships within the region, particularly in addressing pressing global challenges. The success of this meeting underscores Thailand's active role in promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in Southeast Asia and beyond.
Thailand's leadership under the ACD Chairmanship is seen as a vital component in solidifying regional cooperation and advancing mutual interests among member states. By harnessing innovation and fostering sustainable growth, Thailand aims to further cement its position as a driving force for regional development and international peace. As such, this marks an important step forward for regional cooperation and underscores the significance of the ACD's continued role in facilitating dialogue and collaboration across Asia.
The success of this meeting will be closely watched by observers as it sets the stage for the upcoming high-level conference and ministerial meeting, both of which promise to further explore avenues of enhanced cooperation and strengthen ties among member states. As Thailand continues its journey as Chair of the ACD under its 2025 Chairmanship, it remains committed to fostering a more connected and prosperous Asia, one that prioritizes innovation and sustainability in pursuit of regional growth and global stability.
Conclusion:
Thailand's leadership role in the ACD Senior Officials' Meeting demonstrates its unwavering commitment to promoting regional cooperation and advancing mutual interests among member states. As Thailand continues to navigate its role as Chair of the ACD under its 2025 Chairmanship, it will be essential for the organization to build on this momentum and further strengthen ties with its member states, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous Asia.