UNDER-SECRETARY-GENERAL AND SPECIAL ENVOY FOR DIGITAL AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES - MESSAGE TO THE VIET NAM NATIONAL FORUM ON DIGITAL ENTERPRISES DEVELOPMENT

Excellencies, distinguished delegates,  

It is an honour to convey this message to the National Forum on Digital Enterprises Development in Viet Nam, soon after my visit to the country on 5-6 January 2025.

During my visit, I saw with my own eyes how Viet Nam is pushing forward strongly and proactively in the areas of digital transformation and AI, with H.E. Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the Party, taking a strong lead within the framework of the recently adopted Politburo Resolution 57. 

The visit was an opportune moment to meet with the Leaders of Viet Nam, in particular His Excellency Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, and engage with various segments of the society towards equitable, transparent and inclusive digital transformation and ethical and human-centric development, deployment and use of AI.

With the Vietnamese leadership, I also discussed the importance of the human-centric approach in digital transformation and AI. 

I highly appreciate the Government of Viet Nam’s invitation to me to share this message with you this morning.

In this era of digital transformation and the scientific-technological revolution, investing in science and technology, fostering innovation, and driving digital transformation offer new opportunities for robust development and prosperity.

Mastering strategic technologies such as AI and semiconductors, underpinned by well-crafted and forward-looking policies, can accelerate progress in these areas. 

Alongside such strides, frameworks are needed to ensure that everyone benefits from the technical advancement, and that no one is left behind. 

I have been impressed with the thoughtfulness and agility with which government, private sector, academic institutes and civil society groups in Viet Nam are engaged on new national efforts harness digital technologies for inclusive, sustainable development.

We must also ensure that all countries benefit from AI’s promise and potential to support widespread development and social and economic progress for all people.

The Global Digital Compact offers such a framework at the global level, and Viet Nam’s willingness to play an active role in key areas of the is welcomed and appreciated by the United Nations.

The United Nations looks forward to close collaboration with the Government and people of Viet Nam to ensure that the benefits of technology are spread to reduce digital divides within and between countries.

Thank you.