Sadiq Inam
BANGKOK: Thailand’s role in strengthening regional unity, promoting economic stability and advancing digital cooperation was the focus of a panel discussion held at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand (FCCT) on Thursday.
Titled “Thailand’s Momentum 2026: Trust and Security, a Reliable Bridge in ASEAN,” the discussion brought together former Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, academic Fuadi Pitsuwan and Bitkub Group founder Jirayut Srupsrisopa to examine Thailand’s position in a changing regional and global environment.
The discussion highlighted the importance of building stronger relationships among Southeast Asian countries, addressing regional challenges through dialogue and identifying common interests to support long-term cooperation.
Former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva stressed the need for ASEAN countries to focus on the issues that unite them rather than allowing differences and disagreements to undermine regional relationships. He emphasized the importance of strengthening unity and working collectively to resolve problems between member states.
His remarks underscored the view that cooperation and mutual understanding are essential for ASEAN to maintain its regional relevance and respond effectively to shared challenges.
Fuadi Pitsuwan highlighted the growing importance of technology and the need for deeper analysis and a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing the region. His perspective pointed to the importance of looking beyond immediate developments and examining the broader factors shaping ASEAN’s future.
Jirayut Srupsrisopa emphasized stability and the digital economy, highlighting areas that require greater attention as Southeast Asia continues to navigate economic transformation and technological change. The discussion also reflected the significance of digital development in creating new opportunities for businesses and strengthening regional economic cooperation.
The panel addressed broader questions surrounding Thailand’s strategic position, ASEAN integration, trade diversification, investor confidence and the opportunities presented by the region’s evolving digital economy.
As Southeast Asian countries face changing geopolitical and economic conditions, the discussion highlighted the need to combine regional cooperation with technological progress and economic resilience.
The central message emerging from the discussion was that ASEAN’s future depends not only on economic opportunities and technological advancement but also on the willingness of its member states to work together, manage their differences and build trust.
The event was part of the FCCT’s Thailand’s Vision series, which examines Thailand’s future direction and its role in regional and international affairs.
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