The ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Retreat is scheduled to take place in Luang Prabang on March 8-9. The main agenda of this retreat, as outlined by the Lao chair, will be to discuss economic priorities.

These priorities include further strengthening ASEAN economic integration and connectivity, promoting inclusivity and sustainability, and advancing the digital future.

The retreat will specifically focus on lists of Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs), which are intended to address these strategic goals. The Lao chair has suggested 14 PEDs, six of which are initiatives proposed by Laos.

Thailand’s Commerce Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, is expected to lead the Thai delegation to the retreat, although the ministry has not yet confirmed his participation.

Thailand has previously pledged its full support for the Lao chair’s initiatives, as expressed during Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s visit to Vientiane in October and reiterated by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahindra-Nukara at the recent ASEAN foreign ministers’ retreat.

The economic ministers’ retreat is significant as it will shape the economic agenda for the Lao chair throughout the year, leading up to the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in October. The Lao chair is also planning other activities, including the 15th ASEAN Connectivity Symposium, which will focus on enhancing connectivity towards the ASEAN Community Post-2025 vision, as well as symposiums on enhancing connectivity and resilience.