Doha Hosts ITU Workshop on Universal and Meaningful Connectivity for the Arab States

The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) of the State of Qatar, in collaboration with the Telecommunication Development Bureau (BDT) of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is hosting the ITU Workshop on Promoting and Measuring Universal and Meaningful Connectivity for the Arab States. The three-day event brings together key stakeholders, policymakers and statisticians from across the region to discuss strategies for improving digital inclusion and access to connectivity for all. The workshop aims to explore how universal and meaningful connectivity can be achieved across the Arab world, focusing on the critical role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in driving sustainable development. It will provide a platform for policymakers, industry experts, and representatives from both public and private sectors to share insights, best practices, and innovative solutions to address connectivity challenges. As the world becomes increasingly reliant on digital platforms for economi c, social, and educational growth, achieving universal and meaningful connectivity has never been more important. The workshop will delve into key areas, such as the digital divide, infrastructure development, affordability of services, and the role of emerging technologies like Fifth Generation (5G) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in enhancing access. Public Relations and Communication Manager at CRA Eng. Hussain Abdulla Salatt emphasized the importance of the workshop saying: "Universal and meaningful connectivity is essential for the socio-economic development, and its importance continues to grow as we advance toward achieving the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Digital Agenda 2030. At CRA, we are committed to working alongside international partners like ITU to achieve digital inclusion in the Arab region. To realize this goal, we are focused on fostering innovation, enhancing digital infrastructure, and improving affordability, especially for underserved communities. This workshop is a sig nificant step toward building frameworks and strategies that will enable everyone to participate in the digital economy." Over the course of the workshop, participants will also discuss how to measure progress in achieving universal connectivity, utilizing ITUs frameworks and tools. These tools are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of policy initiatives and ensuring that all population groups, particularly in underserved and remote areas, can benefit from the opportunities that the digital economy provides. As the Arab region continues to evolve digitally, the insights and recommendations from the workshop will play a pivotal role in shaping policies that ensure equitable access to the internet and digital services for all, further enhancing the quality of life and driving regional development. Source: Qatar News Agency