Hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST) of Saudi Arabia, the second edition of “Connecting the World from the Skies” Global Forum 2024 was held on November 25-26 in Riyadh. The Forum brought together policymakers, industry leaders, and technical experts from across the world to discuss the continued evolution of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTNs), and the key role they are playing in shaping the future of global connectivity.
The Forum’s key themes included Seamless Connectivity for All, Towards WRC-27 & Beyond, D2D and Hybrid Connectivity, NTN, IoT, 5G & 6G Convergence, Space Economies and Emerging Markets, Lunar Connectivity, Security of NTN Networks, and Space Sustainability.
Representing SAMENA Telecommunications Council, Bocar BA, CEO, in his discussion during the panel, titled “Achieving Seamless Connectivity Across Land, Sea, and Air”, shared insights on how priorities of the Private Sector and Member States need to be aligned to achieve seamless connectivity, and to overcome the prevailing digital divides around the globe. BA’s insights also reflected on his roles as chair of the ITU Industry Advisory Group on Development Issues & Private Sector Chief Regulatory Officers' (IAGDI-CRO) meeting, as well as member of the ITU Digital Innovation Board.
“NTN holds the transformative promise for social & economic inclusion. This corroborates the central role of Telcos, Techcos, and Satellite Operators in bridging digital divides around the world. Seamless connectivity and innovation require the right policy and regulatory direction from Governments as well as rightly directed investments from the Private Sector. Both need to be fully aligned and fully empowered”, stated Bocar.
The two days of the Forum addressed several key topics, including the objectives of the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), particularly shaping the future of lunar communications; and device-to-device (D2D) communications and Space sustainability, emphasizing on the importance of ensuring equitable access to satellite-based Space resources for all nations.
With the increasing convergence of non-terrestrial and terrestrial connectivity systems and solutions, the Forum discussed the challenges and the opportunities ahead, exploring collaborative solutions that are emerging to deliver seamless connectivity and unlock a future of boundless possibilities.
The first edition took place in 2022, establishing the forum as a regular platform for discourse on NTN technology and policy. The 2024 event addressed the progress made since and the ongoing efforts to unlock NTN’s full potential.
SAMENA Council aims to continue being a key thought contributor to the Forum, to share perspectives on terrestrial, non-terrestrial, and space sustainability matters, as BA further stated: “The ITU, MBRSC - UAE, and CST Commission - Saudi Arabia are leading efforts in the region to build a foundation for the Space Economy, with focus on space sustainability. It is a privilege to support and engage stakeholders to augment these efforts.”
Source: Press Release