Minister of Science and ICT, Lee Jong Ho, convened with Mongolia's Minister of Digital Development and Communications, Uchral Nyam-Osor, on Tuesday, March 19, at the Seoul Central Post Office to sign a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector.
The MOU, initiated by Mongolia, was crafted to encompass prioritized areas of collaboration, including 5G, artificial intelligence, information protection, and cybersecurity. It also entails convening high-level meetings to address mutual concerns and establishing a joint working group to thoroughly implement the MOU. Furthermore, discussions revolved around initiatives to cultivate digital talent and stimulate exchanges in various emerging ICT domains.
Mongolia, an emerging developing country rich in underground resources with a significant youth population, suffers from inadequate S&T and ICT infrastructure. Collaborative efforts between Korea and Mongolia are expected to extend to joint research endeavors in fields such as mineral resources and climate change response, laying the groundwork for ICT companies to enter the market.
On the same day, Minister Lee Jong Ho engaged in discussions with Tiit Riisalo, Minister of Economic Affairs and Information Technology of Estonia, a pioneer in government and societal digitization, having conducted the electronic election for the first time in the world and securing the 6th position in the OECD Digital Government Ranking in 2023 with Korea topping the list.
During the meeting, Minister Lee exchanged views on policies concerning artificial intelligence, a cornerstone among the 12 national strategic technologies. He also introduced the Digital Bill of Rights, unveiled last September, as a charter outlining the values and principles of a digitally inclusive society. He asked for Estonia's participation and support in global discussions concerning key digital issues and digital rights in the international community including the OECD.
Minister Lee expressed optimism, stating, "I hope to see full-fledged cooperation between Mongolia and Korea, leveraging the respective strengths of Mongolia's abundant resources and Korea's advanced information and communication technology (ICT). It is also my sincere hope that today’s meeting can serve as an opportunity for digital cooperation between Korea and Estonia to be advanced."
For further information, please contact the Public Relations Division (Phone: +82-44-202-4034, E-mail: msitmedia@korea.kr) of the Ministry of Science and ICT.
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