MOGADISHU, SOMALIA — The National Communications Authority (NCA) of Somalia actively participated in the Regional Economic Dialogue for Arab States, convened virtually as part of the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR-21) organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

The high-level session, titled “Policies Regulations, and Economic Approaches for Digital Transformation in the Arab States,” served as a critical platform for regional regulatory alignment. The dialogue focused on developing unified strategies, modernizing regulatory frameworks, and implementing sustainable economic policies to accelerate digital transformation across the Arab region.

The NCA’s active engagement in this international forum underscores Somalia's commitment to aligning with global and regional ICT standards. The discussions focused heavily on updating regulations to effectively support emerging digital economies, close prevailing connectivity gaps, and build robust, secure digital infrastructures.

Key themes explored by regional authorities and specialists during the roundtable included the harmonization of cross-border telecom policies, the expansion of high-speed fiber-optic networks, and the strategic deployment of satellite communications to guarantee inclusive internet access for all.

The regulatory insights and frameworks established during this dialogue are expected to serve as a baseline for national ICT development agendas and strengthen multilateral collaboration between regional regulatory bodies and international institutions.

For more information on the outcomes of this session and updates from the Global Symposium for Regulators, please visit the official ITU portal at www.itu.int/gsr21-asp or follow the conversation using #ITUGSR.