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

The annual ADGMIN serves as the highest cooperation mechanism in ASEAN for digital technology and ICT, bringing together ministers from ASEAN member states and dialogue partners. The theme for ADGMIN-5 was "Safe, Innovative, and Inclusive: Shaping ASEAN's Digital Future."

Minister Nguyen Manh Hung emphasized the importance of safety in the digital landscape by advocating for the adoption of open technologies like 5G Open RAN and open-source AI. He also highlighted the need to regulate service providers and digital platforms and improve citizens' digital skills to combat online fraud.

To foster innovation, he called for accelerated digital transformation, the creation of an environment conducive to digital innovation, and increased digital consumption, especially by governments, to create markets. He also encouraged bold implementation of sandbox mechanisms to test new solutions and applications.

Regarding universal service, Minister Hung proposed leveraging contributions from telecom operators to public utility funds, deploying community-based digital technology teams to assist citizens, and shutting down 2G networks to enable all mobile users to access the internet.

The conference reviewed the outcomes of the 2024 cooperation plan and approved the Bangkok Declaration on shaping ASEAN's digital future. Plans for 2025 cooperation were also discussed.

During the event, Minister Hung held bilateral meetings with ministers from Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste to strengthen cooperation and address mutual priorities.

Bilateral meetings

At a meeting with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Jantarar Ruangtong, the two sides exchanged experiences on digital infrastructure development, 5G deployment, and discussed collaboration on submarine cable networks. They also explored ways to support digital technology enterprises from both countries in expanding their markets.

In discussions with Lao Minister of Technology and Communications, Boviengkham Vongdara, the focus was on advancing joint programs in cybersecurity, implementing online education platforms (MOOCs), and providing both short-term and long-term training in telecommunications management, spectrum, and internet governance.

Similarly, talks with Cambodia’s Minister of Posts and Telecommunications, Chea Vandeth, centered on enhancing exchanges at all levels to share expertise in digital transformation, improving internet access, and supporting the business activities of enterprises in both countries.

Minister Hung also met with Myanmar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications, Mya Tun Oo, to discuss digital policy development, workforce training in the digital sector, and facilitating business operations for companies from both nations.

For Timor-Leste, currently an ASEAN observer and in the process of becoming its 11th member, discussions with Minister of Transport and Communications Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu focused on building legal frameworks for ICT, workforce training, and promoting enterprise cooperation. The meeting concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on ICT and digital transformation collaboration.

Minister Hung’s participation in ADGMIN-5 and related bilateral meetings reinforced Vietnam’s role in ASEAN digital cooperation, identifying priority areas and practical solutions for projects and programs. These efforts contribute to Vietnam’s reputation and position on the international stage.

On behalf of the Vietnamese government, Minister Hung extended an invitation to ASEAN member states and dialogue partners to attend the next ADGMIN conference, scheduled to be hosted in Vietnam in 2026.

Hai Phong