WIC 2025: Turkmenistan committed to the principles of digital inclusion and a technological world
14.04.2025 | 23:15 |In Hong Kong, China, on April 14th, the two-day Asia-Pacific Summit of the World Internet Conference 2025 commenced under the theme "Digital and Intelligent Integration as the Driving Force of the Future — Joint Efforts to Build a Community of Shared Future in Cyberspace". At the opening ceremony, the Chairman of the Turkmen Communications Agency ("Turkmenaragatnashyk"), Hajymyrat Hudaygulyyev, expressed hope for the strengthening of cooperation in the field of cross-border traffic to ensure the secure and sustainable development of data transmission in the Asia-Pacific region.
Turkmenistan is advancing along the path of digital transformation, implementing a systematic modernization of telecommunications infrastructure, the digitalization of public administration, and the stimulation of IT education. The country continues to invest in the construction of fiber-optic networks, the development of 5G, and satellite communication systems.
"It is important that digital infrastructure is not a luxury, but a standard of living" emphasized Mr. Hudaygulyev. He spoke about the first smart city in Central Asia, Arkadag city, which has become a demonstrative example of the active use of advanced digital and "green" technologies.
Due to its geographical location, Turkmenistan plays a strategic role in the development of digital transport corridors between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. "We advocate for the expansion of cooperation in the creation of regional internet backbones and cross-border data centers to ensure sustainable and secure traffic throughout the Asia-Pacific zone" stated Mr. Hudaygulyev.
He also addressed the security of the digital space. "We have strengthened the regulatory framework ensuring the protection of personal data, enhanced cooperation with international partners on cybersecurity, and launched educational programs on digital hygiene covering all age groups to raise awareness and foster responsible behavior in the digital environment," reported the Chairman of "Turkmenaragatnashyk". He advocated for the formation of global standards in the field of cybersecurity based on mutual respect and sovereignty, and the introduction of artificial intelligence based on the principles of ethics, fairness, and equal access. "Turkmenistan is ready to actively work with all interested partners within the framework of international cooperation to ensure that the use of AI is accessible to all and brings real benefits to our citizens and the global community".
Turkmenistan is open to partnership. We are ready to adopt best practices and explore leading experiences, including in the areas of "smart cities" digital education, telemedicine, and remote administration. Artificial intelligence and digital technologies not only change the economy, science, and daily life, but also create the foundation for the formation of a global community with a shared future in cyberspace.
"Turkmenistan is committed to the principles of openness, digital inclusion, and a technological world" emphasized Mr. Hudaygulyev, and invited summit participants to the international forum "Turkmentel-2025" which will be held from November 12-14, 2025, in the city of Ashgabat.
The Asia-Pacific Summit of the World Internet Conference (WIC) 2025 is expected to herald a new chapter in the development of regional cooperation in the field of the digital economy. During the event, ministerial officials and high-ranking representatives of industrial institutions from dozens of countries are engaged in in-depth exchanges of views on promoting economic development through innovation and technology, as well as assisting enterprises in entering foreign markets, according to Chinese media reports.
ORIENT