Thailand Leads ASEAN Push for Rural Innovation & Growth
Thailand hosted the 14th AMRDPE, uniting ASEAN leaders to tackle poverty using innovation and local wisdom for sustainable rural growth.
The Ministry of Interior has successfully concluded the 14th ASEAN Ministers Meeting on Rural Development and Poverty Eradication (14th AMRDPE), reinforcing Thailand’s leadership in sustainable regional development.
Held from December 9-12 in Bangkok, the event brought together ministers and high-level representatives from across ASEAN under the theme of advancing inclusive rural development through innovation, local wisdom, and community empowerment.
Chaired by Deputy Minister of Interior Ms. Sasithorn Kittitharakul, on behalf of Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the meeting focused on actionable strategies to improve the quality of life for rural populations. A key outcome was the adoption of a joint statement committing all member states to concrete poverty reduction measures.
Key Highlights of the Summit:
Public-Private-People Partnerships (PPPP): On December 9, the forum emphasized the role of youth entrepreneurs and digital infrastructure in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 1 (No Poverty). The session highlighted the need for high-speed internet in rural areas to connect local businesses to global markets.
Empowering Communities: The ASEAN Village Network (AVN) dialogue on December 10 showcased model communities. Leaders from Ban Tha Makham, Ban Khon Kwang, and Ban Nong Sai shared their success stories in using OTOP products and local wisdom to drive economic growth.
International Cooperation: The Senior Officials Meeting included dialogue partners China, South Korea, and Japan (ASEAN+3). Discussions centered on digital innovation and climate resilience, with Thailand proposing a new project for grassroots empowerment and knowledge exchange.
honoring Excellence. The 7th RDPE Leadership Awards recognized 19 organizations across the region for their outstanding contributions to rural development.
The event concluded with a study visit to the Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute in Ayutthaya. Looking ahead, member states agreed that Vietnam will host the next major gathering, the 15th AMRDPE, in 2027.
