The Cabinet approved the draft APEC AI 2026 statement, highlighting cooperation in cybersecurity and the advancement of the digital economy.

The Cabinet approved the draft APEC AI 2026 statement, to be jointly endorsed at the meeting in Chengdu on July 23-24. The statement highlights cooperation in five areas: accelerating the development of the digital economy, enhancing cybersecurity, and supporting the sustainable use of AI.

On July 21, 2569 at 13.36:XNUMX a.m. Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Government Spokesperson revealed that The Cabinet approved the draft APEC Ministerial Statement on Digital and Artificial Intelligence 2026. And authorized the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, or his/her designated representative, to endorse the draft statement at the APEC Ministerial Meeting on Digital and Artificial Intelligence 2026, to be held on July 23-24, 2569, in Chengdu, People's Republic of China.

The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office stated that the draft statement is a key outcome document of the meeting, aiming to promote the use of digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance capabilities and drive inclusive and sustainable growth in the Asia-Pacific community. It outlines five key areas of cooperation: digital connectivity, digital technology and AI for development, digital engagement and skills enhancement, creating a secure digital environment, and promoting investment in the development of a digital ecosystem.

In terms of digital connectivity, APEC members will work together to promote the development of high-quality, reliable, interconnected, and affordable communications and computing infrastructure, while reducing the digital divide between urban and rural areas and between different population groups, especially women, indigenous peoples, youth, the elderly, and people with disabilities, so that everyone has equal opportunity to participate in and benefit from the digital economy.

Regarding the application of digital technologies and AI for development, the focus will be on accelerating innovation, supporting digital transformation, and exchanging policies and experiences among member economies. It will also promote the development of AI-powered products and services to improve the quality of life for people, particularly in public health, education, and elderly care.

The draft statement also emphasizes upgrading the digital skills of the population through expanding educational opportunities, vocational training, and the exchange of best practices, as well as building awareness of AI, in order to prepare the region's workforce to adapt to and use technology appropriately and effectively.

In terms of security, APEC members recognize the risks posed by malicious cyber activities, data leaks, the spread of misinformation and falsehoods, and the use of AI to create harmful or illegal synthetic content. Therefore, they will strengthen policy discussions and exchange best practices on cybersecurity, data protection, supply chain security and digital infrastructure, as well as measures against online fraud.

The Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister added that Thailand has pushed for a draft statement reflecting key issues that the country prioritizes, namely combating online crime, maintaining cybersecurity, and ensuring a sustainable digital transition. This aligns with the government's policy of protecting citizens from online threats and building confidence in using digital services.

Furthermore, the draft statement encourages the investment sector and financial institutions to increase access to funding for digital and AI transformation, particularly for small, medium, and micro enterprises (SMEs) and startups. It also promotes innovation, respect for intellectual property rights, and the appropriate use of open-source software to build a robust and open digital ecosystem.

“This APEC collaboration will enable Thailand to exchange knowledge, technology, and best practices that are beneficial to member economies, while further developing digital infrastructure, upgrading people's skills, increasing opportunities for entrepreneurs, and creating a safe online environment. The government is committed to leveraging AI and digital technologies to enhance competitiveness while simultaneously creating benefits and improving the quality of life for all citizens,” Ms. Lalida said.

This draft statement is a document expressing the joint political will of APEC ministers; it does not create any obligations under international law and is not a treaty under the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand.

refer : thaigov.go.th

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