ITU regional representative discusses digital issues with Communications Minister

Kathmandu: Asia-Pacific Regional representative for the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), Kishore Babu Yerraballa, met Minister for Information and Communications, Dr Bikram Timilsina, today.

Matters related to digital priorities, inclusive connectivity, and development of sustainable and accessible information technology were discussed during the meeting.

ITU official Yerraballa expressed readiness to extend support to the Nepal government’s campaign of digital transformation through technical, policy and institutional cooperation.

Expansion of digital infrastructures, capacity building, legal and regulatory reform and digital access in rural areas could be the sectors for cooperation, according to Yerraballa.

On the occasion, Minister Dr Timilsina informed that the government was forwarding the development of digital infrastructures in a way to augment social inclusion and end the digital divide.

Although it is challenging to ensure digital access in difficult and far-flung geographic areas, the government is moving ahead with a digital strategy and is ready for cooperation with international partner organisations accordingly.

“Digital transformation is Nepal’s top priority. So, focus is laid on clearing obstructions to connectivity and infrastructure building,” he reminded.

Even topics like policy making, reinforcement of regulatory structures, and spectrum management were discussed by the leaders.

The Nepal government has also kept at the centre e-governance, online public service, cyber security and digital literacy, expansion of the digital economy, digital highway, programme of smart village, capacity building and digital skills.

RSS