ICT sector representatives discuss regional initiatives

AMMAN — The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) on Monday stressed the role of the region’s governments in implementing a series of regional ICT initiatives.

Addressing the ITU’s Regional Development Forum for Arab States in Amman, Brahima Sanou, director of the ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau, said several initiatives proposed by Arab states were launched in 2014, covering broadband, cybersecurity, ICT for the environment, smart learning and ICT for persons with disabilities.

He added that the implementation plan for these five initiatives will be presented in Amman during the forum, which concludes Tuesday.

Sanou stressed that the implementation of these regional initiatives requires a multi-stakeholder approach led by the region’s governments.

“We will extend our hands to all stakeholders in the region and outside the region for the implementation of the initiatives,” he said at the event.

ICT Minister Majd Shweikeh said the ICT sector and its development is among the country’s top priorities.

“The rapidly growing developments in the ICT field require the cooperation of all and intensified efforts to overcome challenges at present,” the minister added.

Referring to regional initiatives, Shweikeh stressed their significance to the development of the ICT field.

Mohammad Taani, chief commissioner of the Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC), which held the event in cooperation with the ITU, said the usage of ICT tools has become a right for each individual and these tools play a pivotal role in realising change and raising awareness.

Taani stressed Jordan’s keenness on taking part in the development of regional ICT initiatives.

Several issues are being discussed at the two-day forum, including development of broadband access and adoption, use of ICT for sustainable development and smart learning.