Forum Secretary General, Baron Divavesi Waqa has called on ICT Ministers to provide strong leadership to ensure digital transformation in the Pacific is driven by regional priorities and delivers practical benefits to all communities.
Speaking at the opening of the Forum ICT Ministers Meeting Thursday, Waqa thanked Papua New Guinea for hosting the meeting and congratulated the newly appointed Chair.
“Let me at the outset convey our appreciation to PNG for hosting this important meeting and thank you Chair for availing yourself to Chair our meeting especially as you have just been appointed to your position only last week. Congratulations to you Sir on your appointment and you can be assured of your Secretariat’s full support.”
He also thanked Ministers for convening the meeting and expressed confidence that its outcomes would support the region’s long-term goals.
“In saying that, let me also take this time to thank you Ministers for the opportunity you have provided us to meet today and we trust that the outcomes of your meeting today will help us move closer to achieving our Leaders vision and addressing the needs of our people.”
Waqa said the Pacific’s history of connection should continue to guide the region as technology and digital innovation reshape how people communicate and govern.
“As Pacific peoples, our history is one of connection. Today, as we navigate a new era, shaped by technology and digital innovation, our shared values must continue to guide how we connect, govern and advance opportunities for our communities.”
He said the region’s digital agenda is anchored in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Lagatoi Declaration.
“This vision is anchored in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the Lagatoi Declaration. Together they call for a resilient, secure and prosperous Pacific where digital transformation reflects our priorities and delivers practical benefits for our people.”
Waqa said Ministers’ leadership would be essential as technological change accelerates.
“As technological change accelerates, Ministers’ guidance and leadership are critical to ensuring the Pacific shapes digital transformation on our own terms, translating regional commitments into secure, inclusive and responsive systems that deliver for all communities, including those most remote.”
He urged Ministers to work together to build a trusted and inclusive digital future for the region.
“I invite you to engage with ambition, openness and a shared spirit of regional cooperation. Your collective guidance will help shape a digital future that is trusted, inclusive and firmly grounded in our Blue Pacific vision,” Waqa said.
