Japan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have formally agreed to collaborate on the development of new artificial intelligence models and the establishment of related legal frameworks. This agreement was solidified in a joint statement adopted during a meeting of digital ministers from Japan and ASEAN member states in Hanoi on Thursday, January 16, 2026. Proposed by Japanese communications minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, this initiative aims to strengthen cooperation in the AI sector, particularly as the United States and China continue to expand their influence in the field. The joint statement also calls for collaboration on developing necessary infrastructure, implementing security measures, and fostering human resources in AI.