On the outcomes of the World Telecommunication Development Conference

The World Telecommunication Development Conference of the International Telecommunication Union, which was devoted to the theme “Iinformation and Communication Technologies for Sustainable Development Goals”, concluded its work In Buenos Aires (Argentina).

The WTDC-17 participants approved the Buenos Aires Action Plan, in which the regions have articulated their specific priorities in the field of telecommunication / ICT development and in building of information society in a set of regional initiatives Implementation of the Buenos Aires Action Plan will be carried out with the expert and financial support of ITU.

The following initiatives will be in focus of the CIS+Georgia region for 2018-2022:

• Development of e-health to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all, at all ages
• Use of telecommunications/ICT to ensure inclusive, equitable, quality and safe education, including the enhancement of women's knowledge of ICTs and e-government
• Development and regulation of infocommunication infrastructure to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe and resilient
• Monitoring of the ecological status and of the presence and rational use of natural resources
• Fostering innovative solutions and partnership for the implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) technologies and their interaction in telecommunication networks, including 4G, IMT-2020 and next-generation networks, in the interests of sustainable development

The conference also adopted a Declaration, which draws attention to the need to strengthen international cooperation on issues of digital transformation and transition to a digital economy, building confidence and security online. In addition, the declaration calls for more active use of new and emerging technologies, as well as for inclusion of innovations in national strategies, initiatives and programs to support sustainable development and economic growth.