THE WORLD TELECOMMUNICATION DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE IN BAKU (WTDC-25) HAS CONCLUDED

The ITU plenary assembly declares the Conference closed

 The work of the World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25) has concluded, with more than 160 delegations from ITU Member States taking part and a total attendance of 2,368 participants.

During the Conference, it was affirmed that coordinated action by States can focus on an unconditional and ongoing commitment to the global community, with the primary goal of guiding a digital transformation that is sustainable, environmentally responsible and fair, while also fostering inclusive growth worldwide.

While acknowledging the significant progress made in the development of information and communication technologies in every region of the world, the Conference’s final document — which summarizes the guidelines to be followed — draws attention to the challenges and disparities that still persist. These issues continue to pose a major obstacle to achieving universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity. This gap is particularly evident and concerning both within individual countries and at the international level, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable nations such as developing countries, least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing States.

To overcome these barriers and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital era, a strong determination to act was reaffirmed. The strategy identified to address these disparities is to strengthen international cooperation and maintain consistent commitment within the ITU-D sector, which is dedicated to reducing the global digital divide.

The Delegation of the Vatican City State took part in the Conference, represented by the Director of Telecommunications and Information Systems, Engineer Antonino Intersimone, who attended the most significant days of the Conference, and by Engineer Luigi Salimbeni, Deputy Director, who ensured participation throughout the entire duration of the proceedings. The Vatican Delegation also included Monsignor Lucio Adrian Ruiz and Engineer Francesco Masci, respectively Secretary of the Dicastery for Communication and Director of the Technological Directorate of the same Dicastery. As customary within ITU, formal representation as head of delegation was entrusted to Sister Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governorate.