December 16, 2019 Results of Visit of State Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications Minoru Terada to Thailand

State Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications Minoru Terada visited the Kingdom of Thailand from December 10 to December 12, 2019. During his visit, he held talks with will include meetings with the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, the Acting Chairman of the National Telecommunications Commission, the Secretary-General of the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT), and formally expressed that Japan would nominate a candidate for the upcoming election of the post of APT Secretary-General election.

1. Talks with H.E. Mr. Buddhipongse Punnakanta, Minister of Digital Economy and Society

State Minister Terada congratulated H.E., Mr. Buddhipongse Punnakanta on the appointment of the Minister of Digital Economy and Society, exchanged opinions on the cooperation of Japan and Thailand in areas related to post and telecommunications, including cybersecurity, smart cities, and postal services. They also exchanged views on the promotion of Japan’s economic cooperation projects and agreed to strengthen the Japan-Thailand relationship.

2. Talks with General Sukit Khamasundara, Acting Chairman of National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission

State Minister Terada exchanged views on cooperation in IT-related areas, including 5G, medical ICT, broadcast content, and cybersecurity, and agreed to strengthen the Japan-Thailand relationship in the future.

3. Talks with Ms. Areewan Haorangsi, Secretary-General of APT

The APT marks its 40th anniversary this year. State Minister Terada expressed congratulations on behalf of Japan and stated that Japan would continue actively supporting APT activities, as the importance of the Asia-Pacific region in the global economy is increasing.

4. Holding of Japan Reception at APT Management Committee

State Minister Terada hosted a reception at the session of the APT’s Annual Management Committee (held in Bangkok from December 10 through 13), which was held to decide on APT’s annual plans, programs, etc.

1. APT’s General Assembly scheduled in Japan

State Minister Terada expressed Japan’s intention to host the APT’s General Assembly in Japan for the next year, and the Secretary-General of the APT expressed her appreciation for Japan’s contributions and her intention to welcome Japan’s hosting. On December 13, The Management Committee officially decided to hold the General Assembly in Japan.
At the APT General Assembly, its strategic plans and budgets for the next three years will be determined, and the next Secretary-General and the Secretary-General will be elected.

2. Supporting a candidate for Secretary-General election

State Minister Terada officially announced that Japan would nominate Mr. Katsunori Kondo (currently the Deputy Secretary-General of the APT) as a candidate In the election of the next APT Secretary-General.