What's Happening?
Vietnam and Japan are intensifying their collaboration on the development of safe and trusted Artificial Intelligence (AI), as demonstrated by a recent workshop held in Quang Ninh, Vietnam. This event, part of Vietnam International Digital Week, brought
together government officials, research institutions, and businesses from both countries to discuss cooperation within the framework of the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group. Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Trang, acting head of the National Institute for Digital Technologies and Digital Transformation, highlighted AI as a crucial driver for innovation in Vietnam's national governance and economic restructuring. Mr. Koizumi Hidechika, director for international affairs at Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, emphasized the significance of bilateral dialogue in translating safe AI governance principles into practical actions. The workshop featured presentations and discussions on AI governance, risk management, and deployment strategies, with a focus on institutional frameworks, data security, infrastructure development, and practical applications in both government and business sectors. The Hiroshima AI Process, launched by Japan at the G7 Summit in May 2023, aims to promote international cooperation on safe and trustworthy AI governance, and its Friends Group now includes 70 participating countries and territories.
Why It's Important?
This enhanced cooperation is vital for both nations as they navigate the complexities of AI development and deployment. For Vietnam, it supports its strategic autonomy in an open and connected AI ecosystem, aligning with its National AI Strategy to 2030. By collaborating with Japan, Vietnam gains access to advanced knowledge and governance practices, which are crucial for building technological self-reliance. For Japan, the partnership strengthens its global leadership in promoting secure and reliable AI governance through the Hiroshima AI Process. The joint efforts to coordinate AI strategies, legal frameworks, and data sharing will contribute to establishing robust standards for AI safety and reliability. This collaboration also addresses critical concerns such as combating online misinformation and developing skilled workforces, which are essential for the responsible integration of AI into society and the economy. The shared interest in promoting safe and trustworthy AI underscores a collective commitment to harnessing AI's potential while mitigating its risks.
What's Next?
Moving forward, Vietnam and Japan plan to coordinate their AI strategies and legal frameworks. Key areas of future cooperation include developing large language models specifically tailored to the Vietnamese language and culture, facilitating data sharing, and investing in digital infrastructure and green data centers. Both countries are also committed to strengthening AI safety and risk management protocols, actively working to combat online misinformation, and fostering skilled workforces through joint training programs. These initiatives are expected to translate the principles of safe AI governance into tangible actions, creating a more secure and reliable AI environment. The ongoing expansion of the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group, which has already garnered participation from 70 countries and territories, indicates a sustained international drive towards collaborative AI governance.
Beyond the Headlines
The collaboration between Vietnam and Japan on AI extends beyond immediate technical and economic benefits, delving into the broader societal and ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence. By focusing on 'safe and trusted AI,' the initiative implicitly addresses critical issues such as data privacy, algorithmic transparency, and the potential for AI to exacerbate societal inequalities. The emphasis on developing culturally relevant large language models for Vietnam highlights a commitment to ensuring AI serves diverse linguistic and cultural contexts, rather than imposing a universal standard. Furthermore, the joint effort to combat online misinformation underscores the recognition that AI governance is not just about technology, but also about safeguarding information integrity and public discourse in an increasingly digital world. This partnership could set a precedent for how nations can collaboratively build an AI future that is not only technologically advanced but also ethically sound and socially responsible.
