International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is all set to open an area office in New Delhi by mid-2022 that will enhance regional initiatives for sustainable and inclusive digital transformation

The Indian Government will fund a new Area Office for the ITU to foster digital technology uptake in line with sustainable development across South Asia.

The new ITU Area Office and Innovation Centre aims to strengthen technology cooperation and boost regional telecommunications development, ITU said in a press statement.

“Today’s agreement is an important step in the enduring partnership between ITU and the Republic of India, and between ITU and the South Asia sub-region,” said ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao on Thursday. The virtual event was attended by Indian IT and Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, apart from other government officials.

 “I’m confident that the establishment of an ITU Area Office for South Asia in New Delhi will help to push the boundaries of innovation and accelerate digital transformation for all people and communities across India, the region and beyond,” Zhao added.

Through a closer presence, ITU hopes to advance shared regional priorities, such as reducing disparities between developing and developed countries in terms of Internet access, digital skills, and other socio-economic indicators after the COVID-19 pandemic.

From India’s national capital, the new office will implement ITU initiatives and provide technical assistance and policy guidance on information and communication technologies (ICTs) in South Asia.

Vaishnaw welcomed the opportunity for closer regional and international engagement through the signing of a host-country agreement for the office, saying: “India is proud to partner with ITU on this progressive initiative for the region, which will advance shared regional priorities, help reduce disparities with developed countries, and strengthen South Asia’s post-COVID recovery. India is determined to bridge the digital divide and help address the ensuing inequalities in digital access affecting the entire region.”

ITU – the United Nations specialized agency for ICTs – promotes inclusive connectivity for all as a key part of global sustainable development.