The World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), organized in Baku (Azerbaijan) by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), was one of the key global platforms for discussing our digital future. The event, held once in every four years, attracted 2,500 high-ranking participants from 165 countries, a record for ITU conferences. More than 60 high-ranking officials (ministers and deputy ministers) took part in the conference.
Deputy Minister of Digital Development, Communication and Mass Media Grigory Borisenkov represented Russia. Advisor to Director Vladimir Gorzhaltsan represented the Coordination Center for TLD .RU/.РФ.
The topic of the WTDC-25 was universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future. Ministers and senior officials of the government agencies from ITU member countries discussed the global digital future and measures to expand access to digital technology for all users. The participants exchanged opinions on developing international cooperation in telecommunication and ICT and alleviating digital inequality.
Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport of Azerbaijan Samaddin Asadov was appointed WTDC-25 Chair. In his opening remarks, Mr. Asadov noted that some 2.6 billion people in the world still lack access to the internet.
“The objective of this conference is to expand access to quality communication for these people and alleviate global digital inequality,” he stressed.
Samaddin Asadov also noted that 184 initiatives from ITU members were submitted to the World Telecommunication Development Conference.
In his remarks, Grigory Borisenkov emphasized that Russia consistently supports shaping a sustainable and just international legal order in the digital environment.
“We are confident that the technological progress must contribute to reducing rather than aggravating global inequality. Our priority is creating a reliable technological foundation for the future that will be open, safe and beneficial to every participating country. The resolutions recently adopted by consensus – with Russia’s active involvement – at various ITU platforms are examples of such approaches,” he added.
The business program also included open interregional consultations on children’s protection in the digital environment. The participants focused on countering destructive content, cyberbullying and ensuring children’s rights online. Maria Bolshakova, Deputy Director General of the Regional Communication Commonwealth, moderated the discussion.
You can read more about the WTDC-25 on the ITU website.
