TEHRAN – Minister of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Sattar Hashemi and International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin discussed ways to foster cooperation in various areas, including artificial intelligence (AI), communications infrastructure, digital multilateralism, and communications security.
The officials met on the sidelines of the World Telecommunications Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), which will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 17 to 28, IRIB news agency reported.
During the meeting, Hashemi explained the country’s achievements in information technology, AI and communications. He emphasized the role of the ITU as a major platform for global coordination, and said that promoting multilateralism and fostering cooperation with specialized institutions are among the priorities of Iran’s digital foreign policy.
The official went on to propose expanding ties through holding specialized training courses for human resource development in Iran, implementing joint digital transformation projects in rural and disadvantaged areas, and exchanging knowledge and experience in digital policy making, 5G communications, the Internet of Things (IoT), and AI.
The ICT Minister said that Iran looks forward to strengthening cooperation with ITU in a structured and forward-looking framework. Joint efforts will contribute to strengthening communications networks, promoting digital resilience, and developing smart economies in the region and globally.
The official called on the coalition to make wartime protection of communications infrastructure a top priority, citing cyberattacks on Iran’s communications infrastructure imposed by Israel during the 12-day war. He also invited Bogdan-Martin to visit Iran.
Bogdan-Martin praised Iran’s active participation in ITU meetings, committees and programs, saying that Iran is one of the influential members in policy-making and technical discussions.
He noted that the regular attendance of Iranian experts and the quality of their participation in meetings play an important role in pursuing the ITU’s goals.
She expressed the Union’s readiness to expand relationships in technical skills development, workforce empowerment and knowledge exchange in emerging technologies through joint efforts.
Bogdan-Martin noted Iran’s strong capabilities in AI, communications infrastructure, and digital services development, and said Iran could play a more prominent role in developing new standards and international programs.
Furthermore, she welcomed the invitation of the ICT Minister to visit Iran and stressed that cooperation between Iran and the EU can serve as an example for the sustainable development of communications in the region and the expansion of digital inclusion in countries. It strengthens network resilience and smart economy.
The Iranian delegation, led by Mr. Hashemi, is participating in WTDC-25, which will be held under the theme of “Universal, Meaningful and Affordable Connectivity for an Inclusive and Sustainable Digital Future.”
On the sidelines of the conference, Mr. Hashemi will hold meetings with his counterparts and a number of other high-level representatives to share expertise and promote technical cooperation in various areas such as fiber optic networks, G5 technology, and AI.
MT/MG