Pacific Island nations are rallying around a common digital initiative aimed at enhancing sovereignty, connectivity, and resilience throughout the region. This message was delivered by Papua New Guinea’s Minister for ICT, Timothy Masiu, during the Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association (PITA) Annual General Meeting in Honiara. Masiu emphasized the relevancy of this year’s theme—“Digital Nations and Smart Blue Continent: Strengthening the Digital Sovereignty, Connectivity and Resilience for the Pacific Future”—as it resonates with the ongoing global transformations.
According to Masiu, the shift toward digital transformation is no longer a distant goal but an active process. He noted the establishment of the Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue in 2022, which has emerged as a pivotal platform for digital development. The Dialogue’s first meeting produced the Lagatoi Declaration, outlining a cohesive strategy for the Pacific’s digital future.
Masiu articulated three main objectives of the Dialogue: unified representation, customized digital solutions, and the creation of an ITU Sub-Regional Office in the Pacific. This declaration also encourages global partners to provide increased technical support and funding to achieve these goals. Masiu asserted, “It is a commitment to innovation, open partnerships, and building a digital future that leaves no island behind.”
Highlighting Papua New Guinea’s ongoing efforts, Masiu discussed substantial reforms and infrastructure initiatives, including the Digital Transformation Policy and Government Cloud Infrastructure, which serve over 950 public bodies. He also mentioned the introduction of a national digital identification system called SevisPass aimed at enhancing access to services and the digital economy.
Masiu urged stakeholders to align their strategies with the priorities set out in the Lagatoi commitments and encouraged participation in the next Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue, scheduled for August 2025 in Suva, Fiji. He stated, “Together, let us shape a smart, sovereign, connected, and resilient Blue Pacific Continent.”
This strong push for digital collaboration across Pacific nations signifies a hopeful endeavor toward modernizing the region, ensuring that all islands benefit from technological advancements and improved governance. With increased connectivity and resilience as focal points, the Pacific Islands are setting a precedent for regional cooperation in embracing the digital age, potentially leading to enhanced economic opportunities and community strengthening.
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