In a conference on the subject, Thai Foreign Minister, Don Pramudwinai, pointed out that the objective is, through the use of cutting-edge technologies, to promote the progress of these cities as the beginning of a movement aimed at developing the economy and society of the countries to which they belong 

The G20 is providing us with information and technologies in this regard so that we can devise a sustainable model of smart cities, he said.

Among the 26 cities to which Asean already gave the green light to initially integrate the network are three from Thailand: Bangkok, Chonburi and Phuket.

Also, Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, in Vietnam; Jakarta, Banyuwangi and Makassar, in Indonesia; Manila, Cebu and Davao, in the Philippines; Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching, in Malaysia; and Singapore, on the island of the same name.

In addition, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap and Battambang, in Cambodia; Vientiane and Luang Prabang, in Laos; Naipyidó, Mandalay and Yangon, in Myanmar; and Bandar Seri Begawan, in Brunei.

Smart city is a concept of urban development based on the sustainability of cities and their ability to respond adequately to the basic needs of institutions, companies and the inhabitants themselves, both economically, as well as in operational, social and environmental aspects.

The model is based on the intensive use of information and communications technologies.

Asean will resume the issue at its thirty-fifth summit, agreed for November in Thailand itself, which this year holds the rotating presidency of the block.