ISLAMABAD: The Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Symposium on Digital Transformation and the Universal Service Fund (USF) concluded in Islamabad, marking a significant milestone for regional telecommunications policy and collaboration. The three-day international forum, co-hosted by the Ministry of Information Technology & Telecommunication (MoITT) and Universal Service Fund Pakistan, brought together policymakers, regulators, and industry leaders from the Asia-Pacific region.
According to Universal Service Funds, the symposium provided a platform to assess regional digital progress and develop a roadmap to transition Universal Service Funds from traditional models to frameworks supporting high-speed fiberization and digital ecosystems. APT Secretary-General Masanori Kondo emphasized the symposium’s role in advancing the Tokyo Statement 2025 commitments and expressed gratitude to MoITT and USF Pakistan for organizing the event.
Participants engaged in ten sessions to discuss regional strategies for emerging technologies, digital divides, and equitable digital transformation. The focus was on future-proofing USFs to tackle digital inclusion gaps by shifting to quality and AI readiness. Discussions also evaluated deployment models such as low-cost Fiber backhaul and green telecom infrastructure for underserved areas.
The forum examined regulatory incentives and financial mechanisms for affordable connectivity and digital literacy programs to empower women and girls. Emphasis was placed on local content and digital services to stimulate economies and drive adoption.
Universal Service Fund CEO Chaudhary Mudassar Naveed thanked leadership and delegates for contributing to the symposium’s success. Special acknowledgment was given to Minister of IT and Telecom, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, APT, and international delegates. Appreciation was extended to telecommunication operators and technology partners for their cooperation.
As the symposium concluded, delegates reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring future-ready digital transformation across the Asia-Pacific region.