Page 6 - ASEAN BUSINESS AND INVESTMENT SUMMIT 2019

6 ABIS 2019

Message from

Deputy Prime Minister
and Minister of Commerce
of Thailand

The ASEAN-BAC which is representing the voice of ASEAN’s private sector has
performed a crucial role in providing invaluable feedbacks and recommendations on the
implementation of ASEAN economic cooperation. In addition, various activities initiated by
the ASEAN-BAC have also supported ASEAN economic integration process in an effective
and inclusive manner.
During Thailand’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2019, the region is facing a number of
important challenges. In particular, the arrival of new technologies and innovation which
are transforming the way businesses are being conducted. Against this backdrop, I truly
appreciate the ASEAN-BAC’s initiative “Empowering ASEAN 4.0” which aims to prepare
ASEAN to make the most of the above challenges. The works carried out by the ASEAN–
BAC under this initiative provide strong support for ASEAN’s preparation towards the future
which is one of the three main focuses of Thailand’s ASEAN Chairmanship.
It is, therefore, my great pleasure to learn that the 2019 ASEAN Business and
Investment Summit will be co-organised by the Thai public and private sectors. The Summit
will provide a special opportunity for the Leaders, government officials, and business leaders
from around the world to engage in meaningful discussions and to share their views and
experiences, which I believe will form a firm foundation for ASEAN to forge ahead. I sincerely
hope that the joint efforts in organising the 2019 ASEAN Business and Investment Summit
will lead to stronger cooperation between the public and private sectors in the future.

Jurin Laksanawisit
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce of Thailand