During his speech, stated that “in the age where digital technology shapes our daily lives, it is crucial to ensure our efforts leverage digital technologies for inclusive and sustainable development globally, and in this vast region of the Asia and the Pacific which is home to 60 percent of the world’s population, marked by its diverse cultures, economies, and landscapes. It is also the region that has seen many digital breakthroughs, from e-commerce to e-services, to digital finance. We must take cognizance of the fact that Seven of the world’s top 10 economies with the largest ICT to Gross Domestic Product (GDP) ratio, in which we have amongst other things seen the digital impact, in terms of industrialization, improved infrastructure and employment growth”.

He further added that “South-South Cooperation emerges as a crucial strategy. By sharing resources, knowledge, technology and expertise among countries in the Global South, we can collectively overcome obstacles and fast-track development. The uniqueness of South-South Cooperation lies in its principle of mutual benefit – it is a partnership among equals, driven by shared goals and mutual respect. In the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which will have a profound impact on our lives our focus must not only be on embracing new technologies but also on fostering an environment conducive to the advancement of innovation. It will entail investing in education and skills development, supporting startups and entrepreneurs, and creating policies that encourage digital experimentation and innovation”.

He emphasized that “in our quest for sustainable development, South-South and triangular cooperation are key, especially in digital innovation and transformation. It enables the sharing of digital expertise and technologies, and promotes Joint research and development, and bolstered by multi-stakeholder partnerships, will lead to innovative, region-specific digital solutions”.

Sri Lanka delegation was led by Sri Lanka Ambassador and Permanent Representative to UNESCAP, C.A. Chaminda I. Colonne included First Secretary & Deputy Permanent Representative the Sri Lanka Mission in Bangkok, A.W.S. Samanmali and First Secretary & Deputy Permanent Representative the Sri Lanka Mission in Bangkok, Vireshika Bandara.

Embassy and Permanent Mission of Sri Lanka

Bangkok, Thailand

04.12.2023