During his opening remarks, Dr. Charnkrij Dejvitak, Vice Minister attached to the Prime Minister, as representative of the Minister of Finance, stated: “To achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the government cannot do it alone. It will require a shared responsibility and strong engagements of all stakeholders. Private sectors need to play a critical role in working hand in hand with the government to advance the course of development, and businesses are encouraged to invest in community, technology, innovation and finance sustainably.”

Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool, Deputy Secretary-General to the Prime Minister for Political Affairs gave a speech on the topic, “The Roles of Private Sector in Implementing the SDGs,” emphasizing the importance of ongoing cooperation to build truly impactful sustainability. “While all stakeholders are contributing to cooperative efforts, focusing on one collective goal would help to create clearer impacts. In addition, it is critical to build the strength of grassroot people, and those who can take care of themselves should help the less fortunate groups to stand on their own. The government is doing its part to reform the laws and unlock incentives for good corporate citizens while also serving as the operation center for the private sector.”   

Ms. Kanni Wignaraja, UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director Asia-Pacific, said: “Developing countries are facing an SDGs financing gap of about $2.5 trillion each year and allocating resources to where they are needed most will be critical to meet the SDGs by 2030. UNDP is working with the government sectors to drive forward SDGs financing and encourage private sectors to get more involved in the effort, mainly by implementing five approaches, namely (1) preparing country specific data and evidence and sharing country comparators and practice from elsewhere, (2) supporting governments to develop and implement the Integrated National Financing Frameworks (INFFs) and strategies to finance their SDGs in line with national development plans, (3) working with interested companies to integrate SDGs into their business strategies and operations to unlock new sustainable business opportunities, (4) working with partners to develop innovative financing solutions, and (5) helping to unlock private finance for the SDGs.

“UNDP recognizes the bold step taken by SEC and the private sector in encouraging the market to shift from regular ESG practices and integrate SDGs impact in business and investment strategies. Congratulations to the government and the private sector in Thailand for coming together to push the bar higher and to create the conditions for the necessary financing space for sustainable growth,” added Ms. Wignaraja.  

SEC Secretary-General Ruenvadee Suwanmongkol said: “SEC has a mission to oversee and develop the Thai capital market. We have formulated a strategic plan for 2020 – 2022 with an aim to create a sustainable capital market in line with 20-Year National Strategy and the SDGs. The plan incorporates three principles: self-discipline, market force and regulations and law enforcement. This is in line with the international principles used in many countries to lay out and issue measures. Moreover, SEC also raises awareness about United Nations Guidelines on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) among listed companies and businesses in the capital market as a mechanism for business risk management. We are very pleased to collaborate with all sectors at both national and international levels to develop sustainable capital market in accordance with the SDGs”  

Mrs. Sunanta Tiasuwan, Vice President of Global Compact Network Thailand, said: “This year, GCNT is giving more emphasis on building the understanding of sustainable development in Thailand. We support training on UNDP Business Call to Action Impact Lab, which can help to measure and manage impacts on businesses that incorporate SDGs into their operation, and consequently help to achieve results and answer business demands more clearly. As an organization driving forward and publicizing the pool of knowledge on sustainable development, GCNT believes that this seminar is a good start for connecting all sectors and raising the awareness of their roles, the country’s directions, and the promotion of SDGs knowledge and understanding in Thailand.”

In addition to the speech by Mr. Artak Melkonyan, Chief Operations Officer, UNDP SDG Innovative Finance, on “SDGs as Impact Objectives and the Approach to Impact Measurement and Management,” there was a panel discussion on “From ESG to SDGs: Why It Matters” by senior executives and experts from various sectors, namely (1) Dr. Wanchat Suwankitti, Senior Advisor in Policy and Plan of the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, (2) Ms. Jomkwan Kongsakul, SEC Assistant Secretary-General, (3) Dr. Arak Sutivong, President of Siam Commercial Bank, (4) Dr. Netithorn Mao Praditsarn, Executive Assistant to Group CEO, Vice President of Group Sustainability and Communications, Office of Chairman, Charoen Pokphand Group Co., Ltd., (5) Mr. Sumeth Lersumitkul, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Moong Pattana International Plc., and (6) Ms. Voravan Tarapoom, Chair of the Executive Board, BBL Asset Management. The panel discussion was moderated by Ms. Thanyaporn Krichtitayawuth, GCNT Executive Director.   

Distinguished guests included H.E. Ms. Satu Suikkari-Kleven, Ambassador of Finland in Thailand, H.E. Mr. Kees Rade, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Thailand, representatives from embassies of various countries, and participants from private sectors, non-profit organizations and educational institutions, making the total attendance of approximately 400 persons. The seminar was held at The Athenee Hotel Bangkok, on 24 February 2020.

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