Promoting ASEAN cooperation in science, technology, and innovation

<p style="text-align: justify;">On June 26, 2026, in Vientiane, Laos, a delegation from the Ministry of Science and Technology, led by Deputy Minister Bui Hoang Phuong, attended the 22nd ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Science, Technology, and Innovation (AMMSTI-22). The meeting was themed "Advancing ASEAN Plan of Action on Science, Technology and Innovation (APASTI) for a Resilient, Sustainable and Competitive ASEAN".</p>

Speaking at the meeting, Deputy Minister Bui Hoang Phuong affirmed Viet Nam's support for the implementation of APASTI 2026-2035, emphasizing that science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation serve as strategic drivers for sustainable development.

The Deputy Minister proposed that ASEAN strengthen joint research initiatives, develop high-quality human resources, and expand cooperation in strategic technologies to enhance the region's competitiveness and innovative capacity.

The meeting acknowledged the initial results of implementing APASTI 2026-2035 and approved a newly restructured format comprising five specialized sub-committees under the ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI). Delegates also noted the progress of two 2026 Priority Economic Deliverables (PEDs) led by the Philippines regarding space science cooperation and artificial intelligence (AI) application in healthcare, and adopted the Joint Press Statement of the meeting.

Within the framework of the ministerial series, the delegation from the Ministry of Science and Technology of Viet Nam also participated in the 89th ASEAN Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation (COSTI-89) meeting, alongside related sessions with ASEAN dialogue partners, to prepare the agenda and contents for review and approval at AMMSTI-22.