Customs officials at the Information Technology and Customs Statistics office in Ha Noi. Viet Nam has taken positive steps by applying IT in state agencies and developing e-government. — VNA/VNS Photo Pham Hau

HA NOI (Biz Hub) — A workshop on the role of the Chief Information Officer (CIO) in developing an electronic government (e-government) in Viet Nam and the Republic of Korea (RoK) took place in Ha Noi on Tuesday.

At the event, organised by Viet Nam's Ministry of Information and Communication, participants shared experiences in developing e-government and training CIO staff.

CIOs play a key role in defining a strategic vision and improving information technology (IT) application policies in order to develop e-governments.

They are also responsible for developing and expanding information systems and databases in agencies, sectors and localities, while instructing the making of policies and regulations on information safety.

Speaking at the workshop, Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Nguyen Minh Hong said Viet Nam had seen positive achievements in applying IT in state agencies and developing its e-government.

The movement would increase the transparency of state agency activities, as well as save time and money for agencies, organisations, enterprises and people, Hong stressed.

Viet Nam and the RoK have cooperated intensively in the field of IT and communication, especially in building policies and laws on IT, e-government and telecommunications.

In Viet Nam, IT application helps to ensure the country's sustainable growth and development.

In the 2013-15 period, Viet Nam aims to develop its e-government through IT application in state agencies and provide level 3 online public services while striving towards a Connected Government by 2020. — VNS