Organized by the Ministry of Technology and Communications under the theme “Accelerating Digital Government Transformation, Building a Digital Workforce, and Driving Innovation Toward the Era of Artificial Intelligence (AI),” the forum focused on strengthening digital government, developing skilled digital workers and promoting innovation to support socio-economic development.
The forum was presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Khamlieng Outhakaithasone and Minister of Technology and Communications Santisouk Simmalavong, who also serves as Standing Vice-Chairman of the National Committee for Digital Transformation of the Lao PDR.
Participants included ministers and deputy ministers, provincial and Vientiane Capital governors, diplomats, international delegates, provincial technology and communications officials, and business leaders.

Addressing the forum, Santisouk Simmalavong said digital transformation had become essential to national development amid rapid technological advances and the growing influence of AI.
“Digital transformation is no longer merely an option; it is a necessity for socio-economic development,” he said, emphasizing the three pillars of digital transformation: digital government, the digital economy and digital society.
He noted that the establishment of the National Committee for Digital Transformation, chaired by the Prime Minister, demonstrated the government’s commitment to advancing the country’s digital development.

Deputy Prime Minister Khamlieng Outhakaithasone highlighted the importance of digital transformation in implementing the resolutions of the 12th National Congress of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and the 10th Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan.
He called for greater use of digital technologies to make public administration more efficient, transparent and streamlined, while ensuring compliance with the law.
He also stressed the need to strengthen the digital economy to support sustainable growth and build an independent, self-reliant economy. Developing a highly skilled workforce capable of using modern technologies was another key priority.
The forum provided a platform for participants to exchange knowledge and experience in digital transformation and AI, drawing on developments in Laos and neighbouring countries, including China, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand.
Discussions focused on identifying practical approaches to adapting relevant experiences to the Lao PDR’s digital transformation initiatives and translating national strategies into concrete actions across sectors at both central and local levels.
The forum reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing digital government, strengthening the digital economy, developing digital talent and promoting innovation to support socio-economic development and prepare Laos for the opportunities and challenges of the AI era.