Trends
APAN60 in Hong Kong for an AI-Driven Future
At APAN60, experts tackled Internet fragmentation, advocated inclusive governance, and introduced AI and green fibre solutions.
Headline
At APAN60, experts tackled Internet fragmentation, advocated inclusive governance, and introduced AI and green fibre solutions.
Context
The Asia Pacific Advanced Network’s 60th meeting (APAN60), hosted in Hong Kong from 28 July to 1 August 2025, brought together researchers, policymakers, and digital infrastructure leaders to address emerging challenges—chief among them, the risk of a fragmented Internet. During the Internet Governance SIG , researchers underscored the multistakeholder model as essential, calling for stronger cooperation between governments, civil society, and tech providers. An ICANN representative echoed this sentiment, warning that financial and educational barriers limit youth participation—creating a generational gap in shaping the Internet’s future.
Evidence
Pending intelligence enrichment.
Analysis
The session proposed a unified “Impact Assessment Form” to help countries assess and mitigate the risks of data localisation, censorship laws, and digital sovereignty policies. Delegates highlighted how such fragmentation undermines global knowledge-sharing and scientific collaboration. the AP-GAINED workshop—funded by APNIC’s ISIF Asia grant—trained NREN staff from across the region in practical Generative AI applications, from automating campus operations to optimising network management. It was co-hosted by LEARN and BdREN and featured cross-sectoral collaboration. Meanwhile, Nokia’s expert-led session introduced participants to the Green Fibre Optical LAN solution, demonstrating how future-ready campus networks can be built sustainably to support AI workloads, smart classrooms, and data-intensive research. Also Read: IETF 123: Boosts protocols with hackathon and sprint Also Read: IETF 123 advances in Madrid following hackathon conclusion
Key Points
- Internet fragmentation addressed with a proposed multistakeholder impact assessment tool.
- Workshops empowered NREN professionals with GenAI tools and sustainable fibre networking strategies.
Actions
Pending intelligence enrichment.
