Geneva: The annual session of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Council commenced in Geneva, Switzerland, with participation from the Azerbaijani delegation. This delegation comprises representatives from the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport and the Permanent Mission of Azerbaijan to the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the ITU Council, which oversees the organization's activities, ensures the implementation of conventions and manages the budget and financial resources. Azerbaijan secured its position in the Council during the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference held in Bucharest from 26 September to 14 October 2022, joining 47 other countries in the governing body.
The session focuses on strategic elements of global ICT policy within the ITU and explores responses to current challenges. It also facilitates discussions on enhancing organizational performance. A key topic is the preparation process for the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC) scheduled in Baku from 17-28 November 2025. The ITU Telecommunication Development Bureau presented a report on the matter on the first day of the session.
Deputy Minister of Digital Development and Transport Sameddin Asadov, head of the Azerbaijani delegation, delivered a presentation regarding the WTDC-2025 preparations. He highlighted the significance of hosting the conference in Baku and reiterated Azerbaijan's dedication to advancing digital development with equal opportunities and fostering global cooperation through technology.
Sameddin Asadov remarked, "This conference, an important event on the International Telecommunication Union's calendar, will serve as a crucial platform for shaping the future of global telecommunications and promoting our shared digital objectives."
During the session, the deputy minister engaged with ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin and Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau Cosmas Zavazava. Discussions centered on expanding cooperation with ITU and progressing with WTDC-2025 preparations.
Additionally, meetings with representatives from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Poland were held to discuss bilateral cooperation in digital development and potential partnerships within ITU.
The session will continue until 27 June.