The event is a significant activity of Vietnam International Digital Week (VIDW 2024), which is taking place in Ha Long from November 19–22.
This year’s SOMRI meeting represents a pivotal moment for ASEAN’s information sector. Building on the achievements of the 16th ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Information Meeting (AMRI-16), the 21st SOMRI provides an essential platform to realize the vision outlined by ASEAN information ministers and to chart a roadmap for the sector’s growth from 2025 to 2035.
The meeting also plays a critical role in reviewing and preparing the ASEAN Communication Master Plan III (2026–2035).
Delegates raise the ASEAN flag at the 21st SOMRI meeting to honor shared values and foster solidarity. Photo: Trong Dat
The conference began with a flag-raising ceremony, symbolizing ASEAN's shared values and commitment to solidarity and cooperation within the ASEAN Community framework.
In his opening remarks, Deputy Minister of Information and Communications, Phan Tam, warmly welcomed delegates from across Southeast Asia to this event hosted by Vietnam. He emphasized that the presence of ASEAN information officials underscores the region's steadfast commitment to fostering cooperation and leveraging the transformative power of information and media to drive inclusive development.
“In an era shaped by rapid technological innovation and a massive flow of information, the world is experiencing profound changes in communication, connectivity, and advancement,” Deputy Minister Phan Tam stated. “These changes highlight the critical role of senior officials in shaping ASEAN’s information landscape to promote resilience, inclusivity, and shared prosperity.”
Deputy Minister Phan Tam addresses delegates at the 21st SOMRI meeting in Ha Long. Photo: Trong Dat
During the meeting, ASEAN officials discussed innovative ideas and strategic insights, fostering a spirit of collaboration to address shared challenges. Deputy Minister Phan Tam underlined the importance of aligning communication strategies with ASEAN's overarching goals and global priorities, ensuring they remain cohesive, adaptive, and impactful.
This dialogue, according to Deputy Minister Phan Tam, forms a vital foundation for creating actionable proposals that not only address current challenges but also position ASEAN as a global leader in digital communication and innovation.
The SOMRI meeting is one of 12 main events within VIDW 2024, organized by the Ministry of Information and Communications in collaboration with the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee. VIDW 2024 has attracted over 600 participants, including leaders of government agencies from nearly 30 countries, international organizations, and major tech corporations.
Delegates at VIDW 2024 are focusing on exchanging best practices and exploring innovative approaches to enhance cooperation in AI development and virtual assistant deployment. Key topics include virtual assistant applications, AI governance, Open RAN frameworks, 5G regulatory structures, and the development of digital infrastructure and human resources.
