Vietnam is gearing itself up for a future plugged-in and switched-on Government.

It follows the Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) submitting the national programme on information technology application for 2020 to the Prime Minister for approval.

The programme aims to have 100 percent of government agencies and government to be connected and be using digital signatures by 2015.

By 2015, up to 70 percent of documents exchanged among government agencies will be sent via email; 100 percent of meetings of the government and the Prime Minister with ministries and local government will be held online; 100 percent of records of government employees will be computerised.

Also by 2015, 80 percent of people and businesses will submit tax declarations online; 90 percent of local customs offices to apply e-customs; 30 percent of procurement auctions to be conducted online; 100 percent of passports for Vietnamese citizens to be approved online; 30 percent of Vietnamese citizens of over 14 years old to have their ID cards issued, using modern technology.

The MoIC said that the most important meaning of the programme is enhancing the transparency of government agencies, bringing them closer to the people and strengthening the cooperation between government agencies and organisations and individuals in the society.

By 2020, Vietnam will develop a broad network to serve government agencies and enable government employees to work anytime, anywhere and by various means, according to this programme.