The Republic of Fiji reaffirmed its regional leadership in digital cooperation as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, chaired the 4th Ministerial panel discussion on “Secure and Trusted Digital Environment” during the Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) Ministerial Meeting held from May 30 to 31 in Tokyo, Japan.
The panel aimed to explore how APT member countries can build secure and trusted digital environments that protect personal data, promote transparency, foster public trust, and enhance resilience against cyber threats to ensure online safety for all. It brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, regulators, international organisations, and private sector leaders, to address pressing challenges and emerging opportunities in digital infrastructure, cybersecurity, and inclusive connectivity.
As chair, DPM Kamikamica guided discussions toward practical, inclusive approaches to cybersecurity and digital transformation, key priorities for small-island states navigating the complexities of the global digital landscape. The dialogue stressed the importance of context-specific cybersecurity frameworks that go beyond technical solutions and include elements of trust, accountability, and cultural relevance.
Experts in the industry raised concerns about outdated infrastructure in crucial sectors and the growing vulnerabilities posed by adversarial threats targeting artificial intelligence systems. It was strongly advocated that Governments adopt modernisation mandates, establish clear AI security policies, and foster deeper collaborations with the private sector to enhance collective digital defence.
Experts also raised the underutilisation of secure routing protocols such as Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), stating the importance of applying routing security measures across Government networks. Japan’s inclusive implementation of BDG protocols was applauded as a leading example, and offers of free capacity-building support were extended to interested governments seeking to strengthen their network integrity.
Dr. Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the Telecommunication Development Bureau at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), contributed valuable insights on the critical role of policy alignment and international cooperation in accelerating digital transformation.
Highlighting the need for regulatory agility to keep pace with technological innovation, Dr. Zavazava also stressed the importance of inclusive digital strategies that prioritise access, affordability, and sustainable implementation. He also reaffirmed the ITU’s readiness to assist countries in mobilising resources and forming strategic partnerships to close the digital divide.
The discussion also highlighted shared regional challenges and stressed the need for collective action in building digital resilience and inclusivity.
DPM Kamikamica’s leadership in guiding the dialogue reflects Fiji’s commitment to fostering collaborative digital solutions that are forward-looking, secure, and inclusive.
In his closing, DPM Kamikamica extended gratitude to the Government of Japan for its warm hospitality and reaffirmed the Asia- Pacific regions collective determination to pursue a trusted, transparent, and future-ready digital environment.
Fiji’s active engagement at the APT Ministerial Meeting signals our ongoing dedication to regional collaboration and its growing influence in shaping the digital future of the Asia-Pacific.
The Asia-Pacific Telecommunity (APT) is an intergovernmental organisation that fosters the development of telecommunications and ICT infrastructure across the region. It serves as a key platform for policy dialogue, capacity building, and cooperative actions among its members.