Vientiane, Lao PDR, 21 October 2024 – The 45th General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) has adopted key resolutions to address critical issues in cybersecurity, sustainable development, and digital integration, aimed at advancing ASEAN’s connectivity and economic resilience.
One major resolution focused on Strengthening ASEAN Cyber Resilience Through Parliamentary Cooperation. This resolution highlighted the need for AIPA Member Parliaments to strengthen national cybersecurity policies, harmonize laws, and boost investments in infrastructure and talent development to tackle cross-border cyber threats. The resolution follows up on discussions from the 15th AIPA Caucus and Tripartite Forum, adopting the Caucus' report while urging enhanced cooperation for a safe and vibrant digital economy.
Another resolution, on Promoting Responsible Investment in the Food, Agriculture, and Forestry Sectors (RAI), calls for AIPA Member Parliaments to play a leading role in advancing sustainable investments in these vital sectors. It supports the development of the ASEAN RAI Parliamentary Implementation Framework, which will guide lawmakers in ensuring transparent, accountable, and resilient practices in food, agriculture, and forestry.
In line with ASEAN’s long-term connectivity goals, a resolution on Capital Mobilization for Sustainable Infrastructure Development was also adopted. It urges Member Parliaments to work with stakeholders to secure funding through mechanisms such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund to advance projects under the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity (MPAC) 2025 and Beyond.
A resolution on Promoting ASEAN Digital Technological Integration was passed, emphasizing the role of digital infrastructure and cybersecurity in driving economic growth and regional connectivity. It calls for harmonized policies that prioritize underserved areas and support ASEAN’s digital integration goals, with a focus on aligning efforts with the MPAC 2025.
The committee also adopted a resolution on Strengthening ASEAN’s Carbon Trading System for Sustainable Growth, promoting a harmonized approach to carbon trading to enhance environmental resilience while supporting sustainable economic growth.
In transportation, the resolution on Improving Institutional Capacity for ASEAN Transport Connectivity stressed the importance of advancing regional transport systems for economic integration. It called for harmonized standards and coordination of cross-border projects in line with the ASEAN Transport Strategic Plan 2016-2025.
Lastly, a resolution on Strengthening ASEAN Collaboration in Artificial Intelligence (AI) was adopted. It urged ASEAN Member States to develop national AI strategies and foster regional cooperation in AI research and development, aligning with the ASEAN Digital Masterplan to support the region's digital future.
These resolutions reflect AIPA’s commitment to advancing regional cooperation in critical sectors, enhancing ASEAN’s integration, resilience, and sustainable growth.