Dhaka: A three-day workshop on policy, regulation, and services has commenced in Dhaka, drawing participation from South Asian telecommunications regulators. Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, inaugurated the event, which is organized by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) at its headquarters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, approximately 200 representatives from telecommunications and information technology regulatory agencies, telecom operators, and officials from government and private organizations across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, Maldives, and Iran are participating. The Asia Pacific Telecommunication Community (APTC) associate members, including Huawei Technologies (China), Amazon India, Internet Society Asia Limited (Singapore), and Cullen International (Belgium), are also in attendance.
With BTRC Chairman Major Gen Md. Emdad-ul-Bari (retd) presiding, APTC Secretary General Masanori Kondo and Member of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar, joined as special guests. Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb underscored the rapid technological advancements and shared challenges faced by South Asian countries, emphasizing the need for high-quality customer service and digital solutions amidst complex regulatory hurdles.
Taiyeb highlighted inclusivity as a significant challenge in the digital journey, stressing the importance of identifying obstacles and exploring opportunities. He advocated for collaborative policy development to create effective and inclusive frameworks.
Masanori Kondo stated that the workshop aims to facilitate the exchange of insights, experiences, and best practices among member countries, ultimately contributing to better regulations and policies. He expressed gratitude to BTRC for efficiently organizing the event.
Dr. Khawar Siddique Khokhar noted the essential role of telecommunication services in social and economic development, calling for collaborative efforts to ensure affordable and quality services for consumers.
Emdad-ul-Bari emphasized regional cooperation in embracing technologies like 5G, Artificial Intelligence, and the Internet of Things to accelerate national progress. He noted Bangladesh's strides in expanding mobile coverage, digitalizing services, and fostering financial inclusion.
The workshop's first day focused on challenges in fixed and mobile broadband, digital inclusion through the Universal Service Regulation Fund, and ICT e-waste management for sustainable development. The second day will cover topics such as digital consumer protection, tariff policy, and smart cities, while the final day will discuss net neutrality and digital transformation.
Established in 1997, the SATRC coordinates radio spectrum, standardization, regulatory trends, and telecommunications sector development strategies for South Asian countries. It holds various workshops and symposiums annually on issues of regional interest.