Vietnam steps up global cooperation in technology and AI through UN Envoy’s visit
VOV.VN - Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hosted a meeting in Hanoi on January 6 with UN Under-Secretary-General for Digital and Emerging Technologies Amandeep Singh Gill, who also serves as the UN Secretary-General António Guterres’s Envoy on Technology.
Welcoming Gill to Vietnam, Chinh highlighted the significance of his visit, which demonstrates the UN’s commitment to fostering international collaboration in technology. He underscored the critical role of fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and innovation in national development and their impact on shaping the future of humanity.
The Government chief reaffirmed Vietnam's dedication to multilateralism, peace, and sustainable development, principles championed by the UN. He noted the UN’s pivotal role in maintaining global security and driving sustainable progress, particularly in areas like science, technology, and digital transformation.
Chinh praised Gill's efforts in advancing the Global Digital Compact, which was recently adopted at the Summit of the Future, and emphasized Vietnam's prioritization of science, technology, and innovation. The country sees digital transformation, big data, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud computing, quantum technology, semiconductors, clean energy, and new materials as essential drivers for its socio-economic growth.
Vietnam aims for an 8% GDP growth rate by 2025, targeting double-digit growth in subsequent years to achieve industrial modernization by 2030 and high-income status by 2045. He also mentioned national strategies and resolutions supporting digital transformation and AI, including the establishment of the Central Steering Committee for Science, Technology, Innovation, and National Digital Transformation, led by the Party General Secretary and the Prime Minister.
Amandeep Singh Gill commended Vietnam's growing role in technology and innovation, particularly in AI, noting that his visit builds on the outcomes of the UN Secretary-General's 2022 trip to Vietnam and recent discussions with Vietnamese leaders. He emphasized the transformative potential of digital technology and identified Vietnam as a model for leveraging these opportunities.
Gill expressed the UN's hope for Vietnam to actively engage in global technology governance processes and encouraged Vietnamese tech companies to contribute both domestically and internationally, addressing challenges in developing nations.
PM Chinh affirmed Vietnam's support for UN initiatives and proposed hosting international events, such as the AI Governance Forum, to promote multilateral cooperation in technology and AI. He also called on the UN to assist Vietnam in developing a legal framework, advancing technology transfer, and providing financial support and human resource training to strengthen the country’s technological capabilities.
