Thailand's Prayuth: Open, rules-based Asia key to post-COVID growth

Singapore's Lee warns of arms race, Malaysia PM highlights supply risks at Nikkei forum

20220526 Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha

Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha says the U.S.-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework initiative is "solid proof of how important and relevant Asia is today." (Photo by Tomoki Mera)

Nikkei staff writers

May 26, 2022 07:30 JST

Updated on May 26, 2022 19:49 JST

TOKYO -- An open, rules-based market is essential for rejuvenating the Asian economy, Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha said on Thursday, as the region attempts to shake off the COVID-19 pandemic and overcome supply disruptions stemming from the Russia-Ukraine war.

"We must regenerate economic growth by keeping the market open and inclusive," Prayuth said at Nikkei's Future of Asia conference. "Sustainable economic growth is only possible when we are able to adapt to any disruptions and uncertainties in a timely manner."