Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attends the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi on January 15, 2026 (Photo: Lai Hoa/VOV)

Addressing the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi on Thursday, the Prime Minister emphasized that digital transformation and the development of digital government, the digital economy, and digital society have become new engines of growth and are increasingly emerging as pillars of sustainable development.

The rapid expansion of digital ecosystems is profoundly reshaping how people connect and how countries interact. Against this backdrop, he said ASEAN countries need to develop a long-term, comprehensive digital strategy.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attends the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi on January 15, 2026 (Photo: Lai Hoa/VOV)

PM Chinh said: “Artificial intelligence is spreading rapidly and playing a central role in the digital era. This requires ASEAN to promote sandbox mechanisms for new technologies and new business models so they can be scaled across the region. At the same time, AI development must be aligned with ethical standards, be people-centered, and serve the goals of peace, cooperation, and development.”

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh attends the 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi on January 15, 2026 (Photo: Lai Hoa/VOV)

Prime Minister Chinh said Vietnam is ready to share its experience and support countries facing greater challenges in order to narrow the digital divide and achieve shared development.

He also stressed Vietnam’s desire to strengthen comprehensive cooperation with ASEAN partners on the basis of transparency, trust, and mutual respect, toward building a united, resilient, and prosperous ASEAN Digital Community.

The 6th ASEAN Digital Ministers' Meeting focuses on key issues including strengthening coordination and harmonization of digital policies among ASEAN member states; narrowing the digital divide between countries and population groups within ASEAN; promoting innovation and the application of emerging technologies; enhancing the safety, security, and resilience of the ASEAN digital space; and developing digital human resources and skills.