Access to the relevant information holds the key to socio-economic developmen. Zardari

ISLAMABAD (SPECIAL REPORT )

On the occasion of 148th anniversary of the establishment of International Telecommunication Union (ITU) today I would like to congratulate the ITU for the steady progress it has made for serving as a catalyst to boost global cooperation in the field of telecommunication. In addition to developing and standardizing new technologies, the ITU’s role in promoting telecom technologies, especially in the developing countries, and bridging the information gap between various segments of societies has indeed been commendable.

Easy and timely access to the relevant information holds the key to socio-economic development. In view of its criticality, it is of great importance that all countries are facilitated in having universal, affordable and equitable access to Information Communication Technologies (ICTs). I wish to laud the ITU for its role in providing easy access and sharing of the relevant information between members states.

The theme for this year’s World Telecommunication and Information Society Day is “ICTs and improving road safety” to highlight the international community’s concerns about road safety. The theme this year is most relevant for countries like Pakistan which lacks appropriate technology based road safety tools. The observance of the WTIS Day today with focus on road safety should help synergize our efforts for benefiting from information communication technologies for ensuring greater road safety.

On this day, I wish to congratulate all those associated with the Information and Communication Technology sector particularly in Pakistan. I also call upon them to keep themselves abreast of the latest developments in ICT to further develop the country’s IT and Telecom industry.