Uniting Asia-Pacific Nations to Address Digital Divide in Astana
The first Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Digital Inclusion and Transformation kicked off in Astana on Sept. 3, bringing together delegates from more than 30 countries. The three-day conference aims to promote more inclusive digital economies and societies in the Asia-Pacific region, as well as enhance cooperation to bridge the digital divide and strengthen digital connectivity, trust, and security.
Organized by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in collaboration with Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Digital Development, Innovations and Aerospace Industry, the conference will run until Sept. 5.
During the opening ceremony, Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov expressed his satisfaction with the partnership with ESCAP and highlighted Kazakhstan’s achievements in digitalization. Kazakhstan is currently ranked among the top 30 most digitalized countries globally, with plans to implement 5G networks in all major cities by 2025 and develop a comprehensive digital ecosystem by 2029.
One of the key announcements made during the conference was the establishment of a National Artificial Intelligence Center in Astana next year, aimed at promoting effective solutions in digital innovation. Kazakhstan is also working on the Digital Silk Road project, which involves laying fiber-optic communication lines between the Caspian Sea and the Persian Gulf countries to enhance data infrastructure.
The event also marked the launch of the Asia-Pacific Digital Transformation Report 2024, which explores the impact of digital technologies on climate change and highlights the potential of digital solutions across various sectors. Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations and Executive Secretary of ESCAP, Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, emphasized the importance of digital inclusion and outlined three policy actions to advance digital connectivity and innovation in the region.
High-level discussions and agreements were also held during the conference, focusing on building a sustainable digital future aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals. The establishment of a Digital Solutions Center in Almaty was proposed to support sustainable development in Asian and Pacific countries.
The conference brought together ministers, experts, and representatives from international organizations, the private sector, and civil society. It underscored the significance of digital inclusion in the Asia-Pacific region and highlighted the need for collaboration and partnerships to ensure access to digital resources.
Overall, the conference is expected to yield tangible outcomes, with agreements signed to foster digital transformation and cooperation across various sectors. The adoption of the Astana Ministerial Declaration on Digital Inclusion and Transformation in Asia and the Pacific will mark a significant step towards achieving sustainable development goals and promoting regional cooperation.
