BANGKOK, Aug 27 (TNA) – People’s engagement is a crucial
element in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the
benefits of local communities, Thailand’s Minister of Interior Gen Anupong Paochinda
said at the opening of the 5th ASEAN Mayors Forum (AMF) on Monday.
The 5th AMF, held at the United Nations Building
in Bangkok from 26-28 August, is organized by United Cities and Local
Governments Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC), Bangkok Metropolitan Administration
(BMA), the United Nations Economic Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific
(ESCAP) with supports from the European Union (EU).
Gen Anupong reflected on the progress of SDGs at local level
through vigorous actions to lift up living standards of local people,
particularly the vulnerable group.
Over 300 participants including governors, mayors,
representatives of local governments and local government associations from all
10 ASEAN member countries gathered to discuss and share their experiences in
implementing SDGs.
The participants will identify the way forward to accelerate
progress set forth for ASEAN’s SDG implementation under the theme Driving Local
Actions for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth.
Gen Anupong said the discussions of AMF fell under
sub-themes of Sustainable ASEAN, Digital ASEAN and Seamless ASEAN, which is to
enhance connectivity.
Results of the discussion will be presented at the 7th
Asia-Pacific Urban Forum hosted by UNESCAP in Malaysia from 15-17 October 2019,
he said. (TNA)
