BANGKOK – Top Business Leaders from 20 Countries Attend the 2nd ICAPP Business Council Meeting, Focusing on Food Security and Tourism Promotion, Along with Visits to ThaiFex Anuga Asia 2024 and the Thai Parliament
The 2nd ICAPP Business Council Meeting (IBC), under the theme ‘Food Security and Tourism Promotion’, welcomed over 100 members from 20 countries. The meeting aimed to drive cooperation between the political and business sectors.
It was supported by the Honorary Consuls Association (Thailand) or HCAT and the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization) or TCEB. The conference took place from 27-30 May 2024, at the Hilton Bangkok Grand Asoke Hotel.
The opening ceremony of the 2nd ICAPP Business Council (IBC) meeting was honored by the presence of the ICAPP SC Chairperson, Mr. Chung Eui-yong, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea and former Korean National Security Advisor; Hon. Mr. Mushahid Hussain Sayed, Co-Chairman of ICAPP SC; Dr. Chumpol Phornprapha, Chairman of the Honorary Consuls Association (Thailand); Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of TCEB; Dr. Pichet Chuamuangphan, Second Deputy House Speaker of the Thai House of Representatives; Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, Thailand Trade Representative.
The members of the ICAPP Business Council, including leading business figures from various countries such as Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Georgia, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, South Korea, Laos, Lebanon, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Turkey, Vietnam, and members of the European Parliament also attended.
Dr. Chumpol stated that “It is an honor and a great opportunity for the Honorary Consuls Association to support the organization of this important meeting. The focus on food security and tourism promotion highlights the potential of Thailand’s key industries in agriculture and tourism. The aim is to build a network of business people and foster international cooperation, driving the economy and enhancing readiness to attract foreign investment. This initiative also helps to increase the competitiveness of Thai entrepreneurs, enabling them to expand their market base internationally.”
In addition to providing a platform for members to exchange views, the conference participants also attended THAIFEX-ANUGA ASIA 2024 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani. Dr. Nalinee Taveesin, Thailand Trade Representative, stated, “THAIFEX-ANUGA ASIA, organized by Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), is another highlight that showcases Thailand’s outstanding potential in the food and beverage industry, which continues to grow, particularly in Thai halal products that are playing an increasingly important role.
Additionally, various innovations promote Thailand as an attractive destination for trade, investment, and tourism. This event also demonstrates Thailand’s capability and readiness to host international events, welcoming entrepreneurs and investors from around the world.”
Mr. Chiruit, speaking on behalf of TCEB, the main sponsor, stated, “TCEB is pleased to support the 2nd IBC Meeting as it aligns with our policy and mission to use conferences and exhibitions as platforms to drive national development and promote international cooperation. This will boost the growth of Thailand’s business sector and the MICE industry, particularly in future industries where Thailand has significant strengths. Additionally, we use conferences as venues to promote Thai cultural identity, aiming to position Thailand as a premier destination for events that provide rich cultural experiences and generate high economic value.
During this meeting, delegates from 20 countries also visited the new Thai Parliament at Sappaya-Sapasathan, which features beautiful and modern architecture.
The ICAPP conference serves as a significant platform for countries in the Asia-Pacific region to promote the exchange of ideas and develop multilateral cooperation, fostering socio-economic progress based on mutual understanding. The aim is to build higher levels of trust and undertake joint missions to maintain peace, stability, and unity.
The ICAPP conference was first held in Manila, Philippines, in 2000, followed by the second conference in Bangkok in 2002. In 2023, ICAPP established the ICAPP Business Council as one of its subcommittees, with the goal of seeking and promoting collaboration between the political and business sectors to address various issues.
The 1st ICAPP Business Council meeting was held in Busan, South Korea. This meeting presents an opportunity to once again showcase Thailand’s potential on the global stage.
