Vietnam Attends the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting

On January 16-17, 2025, Minister Nguyen Manh Hung led a delegation from the Ministry of Information and Communications to Bangkok, Thailand, for the 5th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting (ADGMIN-5).

The ADGMIN, held annually, is a key platform for collaboration among ASEAN countries regarding digital technology and ICT. This year’s theme was “Safe, Innovative, and Inclusive: Shaping ASEAN’s Digital Future.”

Minister Hung underscored the necessity for safety in the digital realm, advocating for open technologies such as 5G Open RAN and open-source AI. He emphasized the need for regulations on service providers and digital platforms, as well as enhancing digital skills among citizens to reduce online fraud.

To stimulate innovation, he urged for swift digital transformation, fostering a supportive environment for digital advancements, and boosting governmental digital consumption to help establish markets. Additionally, he encouraged the implementation of sandbox mechanisms to pilot new technologies.

On the topic of universal service, he suggested that telecommunications companies contribute to public utility funds, support community digital teams, and transition from 2G networks to ensure internet access for all mobile users.

The conference also assessed the achievements of the 2024 cooperation plan and adopted the Bangkok Declaration to shape ASEAN’s digital future while discussing cooperation plans for 2025.

Throughout the event, Minister Hung engaged in bilateral talks with representatives from Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste to reinforce collaborative efforts and address common goals.

During discussions with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Jantarar Ruangtong, they shared insights on digital infrastructure growth, 5G rollout, and potential collaborations on submarine cable systems, while seeking to aid each other’s digital enterprises.

Conversations with Lao Minister of Technology and Communications, Boviengkham Vongdara, focused on cybersecurity initiatives, online education platforms (MOOCs), and training programs in telecommunications management and internet governance.

With Cambodia’s Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Chea Vandeth, the dialogue centered on enhancing cooperative exchanges to share knowledge on digital transformation, improving internet access, and supporting enterprises in both nations.

Minister Hung also conferred with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications, Mya Tun Oo, about developing digital policies, training in the digital workforce, and aiding business operations in both countries.

Lastly, discussions with Timor-Leste’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu, aimed at establishing ICT legal frameworks, workforce training, and promoting business cooperation, culminating in a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on ICT collaboration.

Minister Hung’s involvement in ADGMIN-5 and the bilateral talks reinforced Vietnam’s commitment to digital cooperation within ASEAN, highlighting priority areas and actionable solutions for projects. These initiatives enhance Vietnam’s international standing.

As a gesture of goodwill, Minister Hung invited ASEAN members and dialogue partners to the upcoming ADGMIN conference, set to be hosted by Vietnam in 2026.