APEC’s ICT Meeting commences

The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Information and Communication Technology meeting commenced today in Port Moresby.

Senior Officials’ Meeting Chair, Ivan Pomaleu, when welcoming delegates to the meeting said ICT is a critical tool in socio-economic development and is necessary for sustainable development in achieving the UN’s Sustainable Goals.

Pomaleu reminded the leaders that in last year’s APEC leaders’ Summit – hosted by Vietnam – the leaders made certain ‘declarations’ that recognise the need for ICT in enhancing ‘Quality Human Resources Development’ as well as advancing ‘Free and Open Trade Investment’.

He added that the Telecommunication Working Group will continue to play a critical and leading role in ensuring that all our people have affordable access to ICTs and internet and will continue to support the goals set out by the leaders.

Pomaleu stressed that ICT is now at the forefront of the APEC agenda and the APEC TEL Working Group have significant tasks on hand to ensure that our leaders, through the APEC ICT Ministers, can progress APEC agenda.

He further reiterated that where there is a challenge and a need, ICT has the solutions.

Pomaleu therefore urged the delegates to find solutions in their meetings on challenges we face as we strive to deliver the commitments made by our leaders.

Author: 
Freddy Mou