Thursday 31 August 2023
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Physical Planning, Hon John Rosso at the opening remarks of the Pacific ICT Ministers’ Dialogue at APEC Haus, Port Moresby.
The Papua New Guinea Government is committed to supporting a secretariat to facilitate the works of the Pacific ICT Ministers for the next few years until the Ministers meet again for further engagements.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Physical Planning, Hon John Rosso gave this assurance when addressing the inaugural Pacific ICT Ministers’ Dialogue on Monday 28 August 2023, at APEC Haus, Port Moresby.
With the theme, “ “Smart Pacific – One Voice: Creating a Digital Future Together for the Pacific,” the Government acknowledges connectivity stretches beyond physical accessibility.
“It embodies the principles of quality, affordability, and inclusivity , ensuring that every Pacific Islander reaps the benefits of the digital strides we are making, adding, “The ongoing digital revolution has the potential to stimulate economic growth, expand the reach of public services, and empower communities,” Mr Rosso said.
While acknowledging Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape’s call to align with the Pacific Islands Forum’s overarching vision of leaving no one behind, Mr Rosso also agreed that this is “the very core of our policies and strategies.
“It rests upon our collective shoulders to guarantee that the digital transformation we embark upon, is genuinely all-encompassing, enriching the lives of each and every citizen and community.”
“The convictions shared by our Prime Minister Marape, not only underscore our determination but also encapsulate the very essence of unity that forms the bedrock of our regional endeavours.”
Mr Rosso also commended the Minister for Information and Communications Technology, Hon. Timothy Masiu, for leading this dialogue, with full support from the Marape-Rosso government .
“This dialogue serves as a beacon of our region’s aspirations, where we advance in harmony, leveraging technology to shape a brighter, more equitable future.”
Papua New Guinea is inspired by recent milestone events such as the International Telecommunication Union PP22 Conference in Romania, the Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association’s Annual General Meeting and Business Forum Expo in country and recognises the importance of collaboration within the ICT space.