PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc calls for a revolution in information technology application while addressing the Viet Nam Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Summit 2016, Ha Noi, September 24, 2016. Photo: VGP

The PM made the above statement on Saturday at the Viet Nam Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Summit 2016 themed “Digital revolution – Opportunities and challenges.”

The event, jointly organized by the Viet Nam Software and Information Technology Services Association (VINASA) and the Ministry of Information and Communications, attracted the participation of more than 500 delegates from ministries, agencies and businesses.

The participants to this year’s summit will focus discussions on innovation and national startup, IT infrastructure development, Internet connection trends, and human resource development.

The aforesaid topics are the Government’s top priorities, said PM Phuc, adding that the country is striving to become an international software hub.

He took the occasion to name some key tasks that the Government will focus on in the coming time.

Firstly, it is necessary to accelerate the application of IT, high and digital technologies in all socio-economic development fields, enhance IT application in reforming institutions, laws, administrative procedures and; sharpening competitiveness and developing e-Government so as to promote transparency, accountability and facilitate access to public services.

Secondly, foster scientific and technological innovation, strengthen the capacity to absorb and master technologies, especially new digital ones, and develop the ICT industry so that Viet Nam could become a software hub of the world.

Thirdly, PM Phuc highlighted the importance of beefing up innovation to turn Viet Nam into a startup nation with a focus on developing high-tech businesses and create breakthroughs in digital economy development.

Fourthly, the Government will promote the development of digital human resources that meet international standards and take advantages of the golden population period in the context of the country’s wide and deep international integration.

Fifthly, the country will gradually develop smart cities, focusing on large ones such as Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Can Tho and Binh Duong Province.

Sixthly, the PM requested ministries, agencies, localities, businesses and the whole society to increase their awareness of the digital revolution while drastically stepping up ICT application to enhance their performance.