BANGKOK, May 20 — The Thai Cabinet has approved the proposal for the 16th Leader-Level Meeting of the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) Development Plan, underscoring its commitment to advancing regional cooperation and economic development.
The Prime Minister’s Office's Deputy Spokesperson Anukool Pruksanusak said the Cabinet’s approval, highlighting the significance of the IMT-GT initiative in driving recovery and competitiveness in the region.
It endorsed a draft joint statement reaffirming Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand's shared commitment to fostering collaboration across various sectors.
"Key areas of focus included revitalising the tourism sector, which has been heavily impacted by global challenges and harnessing technology to boost regional competitiveness and economic integration," he said in a statement after the Cabinet meeting today.
The statement also authorises the Thai Prime Minister or a designated representative to endorse the document during the upcoming meeting officially.
"Furthermore, Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornwiwat or an appointed representative will serve as the minister responsible for the IMT-GT plan and participate in the discussions," Anukool said.
He noted that the joint statement will be formally endorsed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on May 27, 2025.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Department of International Economic Affairs, and the Office of the Council of State have confirmed that the draft joint statement does not constitute a treaty under international law.
It also does not fall under the definition of an agreement as stipulated in Article 178 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand.
The IMT-GT initiative, established in 1993, aims to accelerate economic and social development in the three countries' less-developed provinces, fostering closer cooperation and integration within the region.
— Bernama
