Brian Quigley, Google’s Vice President of Global Network Infrastructure and Chair of the Pacific Connect Initiative, is currently visiting Fiji. He is scheduled to be the guest speaker at the Prime Minister’s International Business Awards (PMIBA) taking place tomorrow evening. This engagement was confirmed by Investment Fiji, the organizer of the notable business event.
Quigley is expected to address the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI), articulating his perspective on how AI can be a pivotal force for the future. Underlining Google’s commitment to connectivity, the tech giant is spearheading a significant US$1 billion initiative aimed at linking the US mainland to Japan. This effort is part of the Pacific Connect Initiative, which will facilitate undersea telecommunications cables, specifically the Honomoana and Tabua cables, connecting Pacific island countries, including Fiji with Australia and the US mainland.
In June, Google formalized a partnership with the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) during the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) Inaugural Investor Forum in Singapore, marking an expansion of the Pacific Connect initiative into Fiji. The two parties have outlined collaborative efforts in several crucial areas:
1. **Pacific Connectivity:** Google is investing alongside global partners to enhance internet access and reliability for Pacific nations through a series of submarine cables.
2. **Green ICT Capabilities in Fiji:** A green ICT park is set to be established in Fiji, featuring the FinTel Pacific Connect Internet Exchange. This facility will connect submarine cables from Japan, Australia, Chile, and the US while also providing data center capacity.
3. **Fostering a Data-Driven Ecosystem:** The partnership aims to underscore the significance of data as an asset for economic growth and innovation, enhancing access to data center capabilities for citizens in Fiji and other Pacific Island nations with government collaboration.
As Fiji continues to engage in transformative tech initiatives, the future looks promising with projects aimed at enhancing connectivity and fostering innovation across the region.
In summary, Quigley’s visit not only highlights the importance of AI and technology in modern society but also showcases a significant commitment to advancing connectivity and collaborative growth in the Pacific region. This initiative has the potential to positively impact Fiji’s economy and enhance the quality of life for its citizens, fostering a more connected and innovative future.
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