Politics Economy Country 2026-03-04T04:10:44+00:00

Panama Approves Agreement for ITU Regional Office

Panama's Council of Ministers approved a bill allowing the ITU to establish and operate a regional office. This move will strengthen international cooperation in ICT and position Panama as a hub for digital innovation.


Panama Approves Agreement for ITU Regional Office

On Tuesday, the Council of Ministers approved Bill 6-25, which authorizes the agreement between the Panamanian State and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for this specialized United Nations body to establish and operate a regional office in the Republic of Panama. The agreement sets the legal framework that will regulate the installation and operation of the office on national territory, as part of the country's commitment to strengthening international cooperation in information and communication technologies. The ITU is responsible for the international management of the radio spectrum, the allocation of satellite orbits, and the adoption of technical standards that enable telecommunications networks and services to function harmoniously among member states. It also promotes the equitable development of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), especially in developing countries, through technical assistance, cooperation, and programs focused on reducing the digital divide. With the ITU's presence in Panama, the country more firmly integrates into the global digital transformation agenda, promoting the adoption of emerging technologies and advancing towards a more inclusive digital ecosystem. Among the shared priorities are the reduction of digital inequalities, the innovative and ethical use of artificial intelligence, and the expansion of access to telecommunications services in underserved communities, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This agreement also seeks to consolidate Panama as a regional center for technological innovation, attract investment in the digital sector, and strengthen its presence in specialized international organizations.