Session
Georgian National Communications Commission (ComCom);
Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia;
Embassy of Georgia to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
1. Ms. Eka Kubusidze - Head of Telecommunications, Information and Modern Technologies Department, Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia;
2. Ms. Olga Skorokhodova - Government Affairs & Public Policy Manager, Emerging Markets, Google;
3. Mr. Stephen Nelson - Satellite Policy Director, SpaceX
4. Mr. Anatoly Motkin - President of StrategEast
Ms. Ekaterine Imedadze - Commissioner, Georgian National Communications Commission (ComCom)
Nino Grdzelishvili - Georgian National Communications Commission
Targets: The Session contributes to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 9.1 and SDG 9.c by fostering innovation, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting inclusive and sustainable development. It also aligns with SDG 17, which emphasizes partnerships for the goals, including technology transfer and capacity-building in developing countries. The wholistic project to be presented during the session, directly addresses SDG 9.1 by investing in the development of a robust technological infrastructure in Georgia and the region. By establishing connectivity corridors and technological hub, the project seeks to create a conducive environment for technological development, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This includes improving access to high-speed internet, expanding digital connectivity, and upgrading physical infrastructure. By enhancing infrastructure, the project facilitates economic growth, fosters job creation, and improves the overall well-being of individuals and communities. The project contributes to the achievement of SDG 9.c by promoting the adoption and utilization of ICT in Georgia and the region. Furthermore, the establishment of a digital and technological hub serves as a catalyst for innovation and entrepreneurship, driving sustainable developments and economic diversification. By creating an ecosystem that fosters collaboration between different stakeholder the project promotes knowledge sharing, technology transfer thus stimulating economic growth and building resilience and contributing to the long-term sustainability of Georgia's economy. Furthermore, the project's emphasis on partnerships and technology transfer also aligns with SDG 17. By fostering collaborations between governments, private sector entities, academia, and civil society, the project promotes the sharing of technological expertise and resources, thereby accelerating progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals. In summary, the project aligns closely with SDG 9.1 and SDG 9.c as well as SDG 17 by promoting the development of resilient infrastructure, increasing access to ICT and fostering innovation and facilitating partnership. By investing in technology and innovation as well as promoting partnerships for technology transfer and capacity-building, the project lays the groundwork for achieving inclusive and sustainable development in Georgia and the whole wider region, while also contributing to the broader global agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The session will commence with a keynote presentation providing valuable insights into the topic of connectivity corridors, technological hubs, and their role in driving digital transformation. Following the keynote presentation, there will be two rounds of questions by the moderator for session speakers.
Connectivity corridors between Europe and the Middle East, as well as Europe and Asia, play a pivotal role in shaping regional and global digital landscapes. The establishment and enhancement of international internet connectivity serve as the backbone of the global digital economy, facilitating cross-border integration of services and fostering regional progress. Moreover, the development of technological hubs within these corridors further amplifies the impact of connectivity on digital transformation. The proposed session aims to delve into the significance of connectivity corridors and technological hubs in driving digital transformation, empowering regional advancement, and promoting global competitiveness focusing on the case of Georgia. The key topics for discussion will include significant subjects such as the role of international internet connectivity as an enabler of global competitiveness in an increasingly digital global economy; the establishment of technological hubs – accelerating digital transformation and innovation; strengthening national and regional global competitiveness by facilitating seamless access to digital services, markets, and talent; development of ecosystems conducive to innovation, research, and development, driving economic growth and job creation. The session " Empowering the region towards sustainable digital growth" provides a platform to explore and discuss the transformative potential of connectivity corridors and technological hubs in shaping regional and global digital landscapes. By enhancing international internet connectivity and fostering technological innovation, countries can unlock new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and collaboration, ultimately fostering regional progress and global competitiveness in the digital age.
As Lightning Talks are fully in-person sessions, no hybrid interaction is required.