Timor-Leste And South Korea Explore Cooperation In Digital Infrastructure And Ai

Dili, WWWNEWS-VIPTV, Timor-Leste and South Korea are exploring opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation in digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity, as Timor-Leste seeks to develop the digital infrastructure needed to support emerging technologies.

The issue was discussed during a bilateral meeting between Timor-Leste’s Minister of Transport and Communications, Eng. Miguel Marques Gonçalves Manetelu, and South Korea’s Second Vice Minister of Science and ICT, Ryu Je-myung, on the sidelines of the Global AI and Digital Summit in Seoul.

During the meeting, Manetelu presented Timor-Leste’s progress in digital transformation and highlighted the importance of reliable telecommunications infrastructure as a prerequisite for adopting AI. He also outlined potential areas of cooperation, including the development of a national data centre, cybersecurity capabilities, and technical training for information technology professionals.

The Timorese minister said cooperation with South Korea could provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, technical assistance, and sharing experiences in AI applications and cybersecurity. He emphasized that collaboration should extend beyond financial support to include professional training and the transfer of technical expertise.

The discussions also involved representatives from Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Mongolia, providing an opportunity for participating countries to share their digital development experiences and explore potential partnerships.

Separately, Justo, Director of Systems, Technology and Innovation Development at TIC TIMOR I.P., said the Timorese government was committed to conducting a feasibility study for a national data centre.

The proposed facility is expected to support emerging technologies, including AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain, while strengthening system reliability and digital service continuity.

Timor-Leste is also continuing efforts to improve digital literacy and encourage the responsible use of digital platforms. The government considers infrastructure development, cybersecurity, and workforce training essential to building a stronger foundation for the country’s digital transformation.

The bilateral discussions are expected to provide a basis for continued technical exchanges between Timor-Leste and South Korea to identify practical areas of cooperation in digital technology.