In a new edition of Tribuna, broadcast by Paraguay TV, one of the most significant events in the telecommunications sector was discussed. This event, set to take place next week in Paraguay, will bring together international experts and representatives. The National Telecommunications Commission (CONATEL) will organise the event from March 31 to April 2 as part of the World Telecommunication Development Conference for the Americas Region.
During the discussion, engineer Víctor Martínez, a board member of CONATEL, highlighted Paraguay’s role as the host of this high-profile event. “Next week, Asunción will become the global epicenter of telecommunications. “We will welcome delegates from over 30 countries across the Americas, along with observers from around the world,” Martínez explained.
The scheduled events include the Telecommunication Development Forum and various preparatory meetings for the World Telecommunication Conference, organised by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Inter-American Telecommunications Commission (CITEL), advisory bodies to the United Nations (UN) and the Organisation of American States (OAS), respectively.
Telecommunications connectivity and technological advancement in Paraguay
A key topic in these forums will be the development of new technologies and connectivity in the Americas. According to lawyer Ángel González, head of CONATEL’s International Relations Department, Paraguay has made significant progress in mobile internet access, reaching about 95% of the population. However, fixed internet access remains a challenge, mainly through fiber optics.
“It is crucial to improve wired infrastructure, not just wireless. We need broader fiber optic coverage to ensure a more robust and faster connection, especially in rural areas,” González explained. He also highlighted the challenges operators face in installing infrastructure in urban areas due to opposition from some municipalities.
CONATEL’s role and advances in telecommunications
Engineer Martínez emphasized that Paraguay is a member of the ITU Council and plays an active role in CITEL, allowing the country to influence the global telecommunications agenda. “We are working on key issues such as telecommunications governance, the development of new technologies, and public-private cooperation to enhance connectivity across the continent,” he added.
Additionally, discussions will cover critical aspects such as 5G implementation, a technology that experts believe could revolutionize telemedicine and distance education.
Telecommunication Development Forum agenda
During these events, Paraguay will host over 150 delegates from 33 countries across the Americas. The forum will be attended by ICT ministers, deputy ministers, and heads of telecommunications regulatory agencies.
“The forum fosters debate and dialogue on telecommunications and ICT-related topics, bringing together the academic sector, private sector, and public sector,” González stated.
One of the main topics will be the rise of the digital economy. Paraguay stands out as a global example in the development of digital wallets, which facilitate electronic transactions – an essential topic for the region.
“Digital transactions are now part of our daily lives, making Paraguay a clear example of technological development in this sector,” González emphasised.
The forum will also address public-private cooperation, which has significantly contributed to telecommunications progress in Paraguay, particularly in digital wallets. “Collaboration with the Central Bank of Paraguay and mobile operators is crucial to ensuring the security and efficiency of digital transactions,” González added.
The challenge of artificial intelligence and regulation
Another major topic will be artificial intelligence (AI), an area where Paraguay is still in the early stages. Despite the lack of clear global regulations, the forum will discuss how AI can be used ethically and responsibly.
“It’s an emerging topic, but the ITU is promoting the creation of a dedicated department for AI research and development, and CONATEL is actively supporting this initiative,” González stated.
Cybersecurity and cybercrime regulation will also be key discussion points, with participation from various stakeholders, including the Public Prosecutor’s Office, which plays a key role in prosecuting cybercrimes.
A government spokesperson said in a statement: “As Paraguay continues to improve its infrastructure and implement innovative digital solutions, it is reinforcing its position as a model for other countries in the Americas. This event will undoubtedly mark another step forward in the digital transformation, positively impacting citizens and the country’s productive sectors.”
