“PITA AGM provides a platform for discussion and collaboration between the telecommunication entities registered in the Pacific. Government Members include Telecom/ICT Policy and Regulatory agencies from the Pacific Islands, Associate Members, and our regional Development Partners,” PM Manele stated.
The Prime Minister urged PITA members to address the persistent issue of internet accessibility.
“As we continue to discuss telecommunication and Information Communication Technologies (ICTs), let us be reminded that according to the International Telecommunication Union, under half of the world’s population still do not use the Internet. This is a challenge not only for governments but also for stakeholders in the telecommunication and ICT sector to address,” he emphasized.
Highlighting the importance of connectivity, PM Manele referenced a recent United Nations report on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which identified ICT and digital transformation as vital enablers of development.
He further stated: “ICT and digital transformation are beacons of hope for the United Nations principle of ‘Leaving No One Behind’.”
“This is particularly pressing for the Pacific Island region where geographic scatteredness in a large ocean space is one of the key features, which makes ICT and digital transformation central to development and connectivity.”
Over the next three days, PITA members, partners, and industry leaders will engage in discussions on a wide range of topics, including digital infrastructure and investment gaps, cybersecurity and resilience, submarine cables and interconnectivity, AI, 5G, cloud computing and the future of the Internet, smart systems, and trusted networks.
PITA is a regional telecommunications association dedicated to improving, promoting, enhancing, and facilitating telecommunication services across its member and associate member countries.
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– OPMC PRESS SECRETARIAT
