Asia-Pacific countries are set to explore the next phase of digital transformation as artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies increasingly reshape connectivity, public services and critical infrastructure.
Senior officials and stakeholders from across the region will gather at the United Nations in Bangkok from Sept 2 to 4 for the fifth session of the Committee on Information and Communications Technology, Science, Technology and Innovation (ICTSTD-5).
The session will feature findings from the forthcoming Asia-Pacific Digital Transformation Report 2026 and discussions on a new regional plan for digital connectivity and cooperation covering 2027–2030.
The report highlights the evolution of digital networks from basic data carriers into strategic infrastructure supporting productivity, innovation, global competitiveness and climate resilience. It will also examine how the convergence of AI and network infrastructure could accelerate sustainable development.
The meeting will also spotlight the Action Plan for Implementing the Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway Initiative, 2027–2030, which aims to strengthen secure digital connectivity, improve public services, boost productivity and narrow the digital divide affecting vulnerable communities.
Key speakers include United Nations Under-Secretary-General and UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Executive Secretary Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Maldives Minister of State for Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Mohamed Kinaanath, Pakistan Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Philippines Department of Information and Communications Technology Assistant Secretary Maria Victoria Castro and Thailand Minister of Digital Economy and Society Chaichanok Chidchob.
The list of speakers remains subject to change.
