Ambassador Tshering W. Sherpa delivered the Opening Remarks at the 'Asia-Africa International Forum 2026: Promoting Digital Connectivity of the Global South Countries' organised by the Viet Nam Academy of Social Sciences (VASS).

H.E. Prof. Dr Le Van Loi, President of VASS made the Welcome Speech.

 Ambassador briefed the gathering on the importance of digital connectivity for the Global South. The need to connect, innovate and grow together is of importance. He mentioned the massive strides accomplished by India in Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and the people centric approach such as the UPI and AADHAR.

 India is working very closely together with the Global South friends through various initiatives such as MOSIP, ITEC, e-VidyaBharati and e-ArogyaBharati.