Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP, today attended the 4th Pacific ICT Ministerial Dialogue in Papua New Guinea (PNG), with a new Ministerial declaration and action plan agreed by those in attendance.
Communications and ICT Ministers representing countries and territories across the Pacific came together in Port Moresby to take part in these important discussions – the first held since 2015.
The declaration emphasises the importance of the Pacific elevating its voice in relevant ICT dialogues, helping to bridge the gaps for digital transformation and inclusion, foster innovation, and empower local communities.
The ministerial dialogue will enhance regional collaboration and cooperation to address shared telecommunications and ICT development needs in the region; the action plan and Ministerial declaration will play an important role by guiding that work going forward.
The meeting also discussed a range of issues including ICT-related challenges faced by the Pacific, improving regional coordination and strengthening engagement in organisations like the International Telecommunication Union – the United Nations specialised agency for telecommunications and ICTs.
Australia’s attendance at today’s meeting is just another example of the ongoing support it has provided to Pacific Island countries and territories (PICTs) in relation to telecommunication and ICT development.
Australia’s commitment to the Pacific includes reaffirming its dedication to developing strong partnerships with our Pacific neighbours to uplift cyber security and build resilience in the region through the 2023-2030 Cyber Security Strategy. Australia is also partnering with Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea on the delivery of the Coral Sea Cable system.
Australia is supporting the establishment, training and development of national computer emergency response teams, cyber strategies, cybercrime legislation and online safety awareness campaigns across several Pacific states. These will provide trusted mechanisms for governments in the region to reach out during crises such as those demonstrated following cyber-attacks affecting Vanuatu, Tonga and Thailand.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Communications, the Hon Michelle Rowland MP:
“Strong and reliable telecommunications infrastructure is critical in the 21st century.
“I am pleased to attend today’s Ministerial Dialogue, collaborating with my regional Ministerial counterparts to find ways to strengthen cooperation to address telecommunications and ICT needs in the Pacific.
“Connectivity and digital inclusion are key to unlocking economic potential and linking our regions. It underpins accessibility, equity of services and keeps people and communities connected and informed.
“The Australian Government will continue its ongoing support to Pacific Island countries and territories.
“I look forward to working with our Pacific family to deliver a more connected region in coming years.”
