The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a digital big bang in the Asia-Pacific region. As more and more devices and systems rely on Internet connectivity, countries and communities without reliable and affordable access to the Internet or without the necessary digital skills will increasingly be left behind in terms of gaining access to the benefits that a digital economy will present in the future.
High-level government officials and leaders from various sectors will convene in Bangkok next week at the Committee on Information and Communications Technology, Science, Technology and Innovation to discuss ways to bridge the digital divide as well as harness digital transformation and regionally coordinated actions to accelerate implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The Committee will also explore enabling policy mechanisms to promote the development and application of fourth industrial revolution technologies for sustainable development at both the national and regional levels.
