Director-General of the International Economic Affairs Department participates in the High-level Event on “The Transformative Impact of OECD Accession”

Director-General of the International Economic Affairs Department participates in the High-level Event on "The Transformative Impact of OECD Accession"

Director-General of the International Economic Affairs Department participates in the High-level Event on "The Transformative Impact of OECD Accession"

On 2 June 2026, H.E. Ms. Rujikorn Saengchantr, Director-General of the International Economic Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, delivered remarks at the High-Level Event on "The Transformative Impact of OECD Accession" hosted by the Republic of Korea at the OECD Headquarters in Paris. This forum brought together high-level representatives from seven OECD accession countries-Peru, Argentina, Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Indonesia, and Thailand-to exchange views and experiences on how the OECD accession process contributes to national development.

In her remarks, the Director-General commended the Republic of Korea's vision in pursuing OECD acession and undertaking economic restructuring centered on science, technology, innovation, and the creative economy, which has enabled the country to achieve rapid economic growth. She further underscored that Thailand sees OECD accession as a strategic national priority and aims to become a member by 2028. Thailand views the accession process as an important opportunity to prepare the country for its next phase of development and escape the middle income trap. The process also serves as a key mechanism in advancing reform and raise national standards in 3 important dimensions: (1) strengthening Thailand's regulatory framework, governance standards, and public sector efficiency in line with international standards; (2) enhancing Thailand's competitiveness and investor confidence, while deepening Thailand's integration into the OECD community of 38 advanced economies; and (3) bringing tangible benefits to the Thai people, including in education, skills development, labour protection, and environmental sustainability, helping ensure that Thailand's growth remains inclusive and sustainable.

The Director-General also reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to working closely with the OECD and partner countries to advance the accession process in a meaningful and concrete manner, ensuring that it contributes to sustainable development across all sectors. The Republic of Korea hosted this event to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of its OECD membership in 2026.