US to participate in Boracay ASEAN digital ministers’ meetings

MANILA, Philippines — The United States will participate in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Digital Ministers’ Meeting in Boracay this week as it reaffirms partnership with the regional grouping on a broad range of digital economy priorities and support for its centrality.

The US State Department announced the participation of Ambassador-at-large for cyberspace and digital policy Nathaniel Fick following his visit to Seoul for consultations with govern-ment and industry leaders.

While in Boracay on Feb. 8 to 10, Fick will serve as head of the US delegation and representative to the 3rd ASEAN Digital Ministers’ Meeting.

He will join Deputy Assistant Secretary for international information and communications policy Steve Lang, who will serve as head of the US delegation and representative to the meet-ing.

Lang will also meet with representatives from ASEAN member states, other dialogue partners and the private sector to reinforce US commitment to the region and explore opportuni-ties for further cooperation.

“The United States will underscore the importance of US-ASEAN cooperation and emphasize the role the digital economy plays in ensuring security and prosperity in the ASEAN region and the well-being of our combined one billion people,” the state department said.