Vietnam-U.S. ICT Dialogue: Making The Connections

Since my last visit to Vietnam in 2004, there have been many dramatic changes. Perhaps the most obvious was the increase in traffic on the roads. Less obvious but more transforming, has been the amazing increase in another type of traffic - telecommunications. Everywhere I saw people talking on their mobile phones and online at Internet cafes.

The Vietnamese people are obtaining the tools necessary to compete in the global economy, while also connecting with family, friends and contacts regardless of where they live and work. In fact, as my wife and I passed small fishing villages and farmers in rice fields on the way from Danang to Hue, I was still able to use my mobile phone to send e-mails and read American newspapers!

I was particularly impressed with efforts to bring the Internet to hospitals, schools and rural areas -- bringing closer the day when all Vietnamese will be able to access virtually all the world's knowledge with just a click. Our Digital Freedom Initiative's “Last Mile Initiative” - a joint effort between private businesses and the U.S. government - is already working to bring the Internet to the remote mountainous areas of Lao Cai and Ta Van.

With these cooperative efforts as a foundation, we decided to organize the ICT Dialogue. The United States holds such in-depth dialogues with only its closest partners, an indication of the importance of our increasingly close relationship with Vietnam.

Our first Dialogue was very constructive and helped both American and Vietnamese participants focus on how we can use technology for economic, social and educational benefits for our citizens. The United States is committed to assist the Vietnamese ICT industry grow both domestically and internationally. To achieve this growth, it is important that the private sector is allowed to take the lead, as they develop the newest technologies and, through vigorous competition, provide innovative services at the lowest possible price.

Another topic was Vietnam's plans to create a more competitive and dynamic telecom environment. This would include the need to ensure safe and secure communications for all citizens -- cyber-security -- and strategies for encouraging e-commerce.

We also discussed Internet freedom -- the fundamental idea that people should be allowed to communicate or surf the Internet for helpful information without improper restrictions. This freedom is important to ensure that all people are able to innovate, contribute to the country’s economic growth, and compete successfully in the international economy.

Perhaps the most lasting memory from my trip occurred during my visit with 250 amazing students and professors from the Hanoi University of Technology. Their intelligence, enthusiasm, and interest in obtaining a world class education underscored to me Vietnam’s bright future.

These are truly remarkable times. We look forward to continuing our Vietnam-U.S. ICT Dialogue so that all our people can benefit from the advances being made -- allowing us and our children to enjoy a better, more prosperous and peaceful world.