Technology for Good Life

1:27:19 PM | 3/26/2019

The Vietnam Internet Forum 2019 (VIF 2019) that took place in Hanoi attracted the participation of many technology companies in Vietnam. Topics of discussion included digital government; smart, connected and sustainable cities; digital citizenship for safe and responsible use of technologies; technology and evolution, and accelerating social impact through new technologies.

VIF19 was jointly hosted by the Embassy of Sweden in Vietnam, the Hanoi People’s Committee, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the Vietnam Internet Association (VIA) and Lund University (Sweden).

Speaking at the forum, Mr. Pereric Högberg, Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam, affirmed that “Two important factors of the Swedish society are openness and transparency. Today, 94% of Swedes have the fastest internet connection speeds in the world. The wide application of technology and the popular use of the Internet have enabled Sweden to foster its culture of openness, access to information, innovation and entrepreneurship, resulting in its invention, growth and prosperity as it has today. There is no smart society without smart and internet-savvy citizens.

He also expressed his impression of internet development in Vietnam and internet user popularity, from cities to countryside and remote areas. “One reason why Sweden is the most innovative country in the world is transparency and respect for journalism, creativity and curiosity about new things. Vietnam can also achieve such achievements through internet connection, integration and internet of things technology,” said the ambassador.

Ms. Caitlin Wiesen, UNDP Resident Representative, underlined the importance of young tech entrepreneurs in addressing some of major challenges we face in society, “UNDP is actively seeking new approaches and breakthrough solutions to respond to climate change, fight against corruption, end poverty and reduce inequality. Across the world, it is young innovators who are using new technology and the internet to shape society. Connecting these innovators with creative platforms is key to helping us achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030”.

Also at the meeting, Mr. Michael Croft, Representative of UNESCO in Vietnam, said, “UNESCO is again delighted to be part of the Vietnam Internet Forum. This is a great way for all to see how the digital revolution is unfolding in Vietnam as well as opportunities and challenges that come with it. For us, this conversation helps our work and our approach to issues of communication and information in Vietnam, making sure our work is relevant to the country’s context, as well as aspirations and innovations of youth.”

In his speech on technical infrastructure and internet technology in Vietnam, Mr. Vu The Binh, General Secretary of the Vietnam Internet Association, said, “Vietnam has connected with the worldwide internet for 22 years. In addition to well-developed infrastructure and technologies that can serve well for a local market of 95 million people with over 60% of internet users, Vietnam is now facing with the challenge of addressing and equalizing some legal, social issues arising from emerging technologies on the internet.

Luong Tuan