Suva, Fiji — August 7, 2025
Senior officials and heads of government ICT agencies from 14 Pacific nations, along with representatives from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT), and other regional bodies, have concluded preparatory meetings for the Pacific ICT Ministerial Dialogue 2025. The group agreed on a suite of input documents to be submitted for ministerial endorsement, marking a significant step toward coordinated digital transformation across the region.
Among the documents finalized is a report from the Interim Secretariat and Correspondence Group, which will serve as a foundational guide for regional ICT coordination efforts.
Chair of the Senior Officials Meeting and CEO of the National Information and Communications Technology Authority (NICTA), Mr. Kila Gulo-Vui, commended Fiji’s leadership in advancing the Pacific ICT and Digital Transformation Action Plan 2024–2030.
“It is heartening to know that Fiji is taking the lead in implementing the Pacific ICT and Digital Transformation Action Plan 2024–2030,” said Mr. Gulo-Vui.
Fiji confirmed that its Cabinet has formally endorsed the Action Plan, which outlines strategic priorities for inclusive digital development, infrastructure, and governance. The governance framework underpinning the plan is set to be reviewed every six years to ensure continued relevance and adaptability.
Discussions also focused on inclusivity in digital transformation. The Solomon Islands emphasized that digital literacy challenges affect all genders and called for efforts that support everyone without access—not just women and girls.
Australia was acknowledged for its contributions to operationalizing the Pacific ICT Dialogue Secretariat and for supporting the draft Ministerial Communique. Australian representatives advocated for stronger language around industry engagement, a recommendation welcomed by the Chair, who underscored the importance of private sector collaboration.
Fiji and New Zealand backed proposals to integrate the ICT Ministers Meeting governance framework into the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, reinforcing regional alignment.
The ITU presented a report on expanding its presence in the Pacific, with Fiji stressing the importance of a robust ITU role in driving digital transformation. Tonga highlighted a solar energy initiative supported by the Asian Development Bank and called for deeper collaboration with international organizations.
APT shared its ICT priorities and received broad support for training and capacity-building programs, many of which are funded by Australia.
Papua New Guinea led discussions on contributions to the upcoming World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25), proposing alignment with the Lagatoi Declaration. APT confirmed that resolution submissions are due by September 5.
The Council of Europe briefed participants on the Budapest Convention on Cybercrime, spotlighting the transnational nature of digital threats. The session underscored the need for stronger legal frameworks and international cooperation to address risks such as virtual asset misuse and AI-enabled crime.
With preparatory work now complete, senior officials will brief their respective Ministers ahead of the Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue 2025, scheduled to begin tomorrow, August 8, in Suva.