Vientiane: The Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic has announced the development of its National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy, which will be guided by UNESCO's AI Ethics Readiness Assessment Methodology. This initiative aims to promote responsible and inclusive AI development in the country.
According to Lao News Agency, the announcement was made during a National Workshop on Artificial Intelligence, organized by the Ministry of Technology and Communications in collaboration with UNESCO and the United Nations Country Team. The event also marked the launch of the Lao PDR RAM Country Report, which evaluates the nation's preparedness to govern AI across various sectors such as policy, regulation, human capacity, and infrastructure.
Santisouk Simmalavong, Minister of Technology and Communications, emphasized AI's potential to modernize multiple sectors, including the economy, education, and governance, while maintaining cultural identity and bridging the digital divide. The RAM highlights challenges like unequal technology access and skills development, despite progress in digital governance.
UNESCO's Regional Director in Bangkok, Soohyun Kim, stressed the importance of research and development investment to harness AI's social and economic benefits. The National Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy of Lao PDR aims to boost R and D investment significantly by 2040, with a focus on adapting the education system to a rapidly changing society.
Bakhodir Burkhanov, UN Resident Coordinator in Lao PDR, noted the strategic timing of the announcement as the country begins its 10th National Socio-Economic Development Plan, identifying digital transformation as a key growth driver. The RAM offers insights into the country's AI governance readiness, emphasizing ethics, inclusion, and institutional coordination.
The workshop gathered around 250 participants from diverse sectors, including government, UN agencies, academia, and civil society. Lao PDR is among 77 countries globally, and eight in South-East Asia, utilizing UNESCO's tools for national AI policymaking.
