Senior officials and key stakeholders from across Asia and the Pacific will gather at the United Nations in Bangkok to explore how artificial intelligence and digital technology can further improve efficiency and resilience in transport, energy systems, digital public services and disaster response.

The fifth session of the Committee on Information and Communications Technology, Science, Technology and Innovation (CICTSTI-5), taking place from 2 to 4 September, will spotlight findings from the forthcoming Asia-Pacific Digital Transformation Report 2026 and consider a new regional plan and commitment for digital connectivity and cooperation for 2027–2030. 

The report highlights how digital networks are shifting from basic data carriers into strategic infrastructure, driving productivity, innovation, global competitiveness and climate resilience. It will also examine how the convergence of AI and network infrastructure can accelerate sustainable development.

The session will also highlight the Action Plan for Implementing the Asia-Pacific Information Superhighway Initiative, 2027–2030 as a regional blueprint for digital cooperation. This blueprint sets a shared path for regional digital cooperation, aiming to expand secure digital connectivity, enhance public services, elevate productivity and bridge the digital divide for vulnerable people and groups.

NOTE TO EDITOR

Media representatives are invited to cover the event in-person or follow the proceedings online. UN expert interviews and the embargoed copy of the Asia-Pacific Digital Transformation Report 2026 are available upon request.

What: The Fifth Session of the Committee on Information and Communications Technology, Science, Technology and Innovation 

When: 2 – 4 September 2026 

Where: UN Conference Centre, Rajadamnern Nok Avenue, Bangkok    

Registration: https://indico.un.org/event/1023219/ 

Livestream for online attendees: https://www.youtube.com/unescap  

Key Speakers

• Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP)
• H.E. Mohamed Kinaanath, Minister of State for Homeland Security, Labour and Technology, Maldives
• H.E. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Pakistan 
• H.E. Maria Victoria Castro, Assistant Secretary, Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), Philippines
• H.E. Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Thailand 

*Note: Key speakers listed may be subject to change. Please refer to the CICTSTI-5 webpage for updates 

Media Enquiries

Communications and Knowledge Management Section +66 2288 1869 [email protected]