Mon Nov 11 07:40:59 UTC 2024: ## South Asian Nations Gather in New Delhi to Discuss Telecom Regulation, with Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan in Attendance

**NEW DELHI -** The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) hosted a three-day multilateral event in New Delhi, bringing together telecom regulators from across South Asia, including a significant delegation from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. The event, organized by the Asia Pacific Telecommunity (APT), saw participation from all eight member countries of the South Asian Telecommunication Regulators’ Council (SATRC).

The presence of Afghan officials, including the chairman of the Afghanistan Telecom Regulatory Authority (ATRA), Saed Baraat Shah Agha Nadeem, marked a significant development. While the Afghan delegation declined to answer questions, their participation highlights the growing importance of regional cooperation in the telecom sector.

During the plenary session, TRAI chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti was elected chair of SATRC for the upcoming year. He emphasized the need for collaboration to address issues like spam, which is increasingly becoming a regional concern.

Delegates from other participating countries, including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, the Maldives, and Nepal, also shared their perspectives on challenges and opportunities within the region’s telecommunications landscape. These challenges include access and inclusion, cybersecurity, spectrum management, smart cities, and the regulation of social media and OTT platforms.

Discussions centered on the growing demand for broadband services, particularly in the post-pandemic era. Bhutan highlighted the need for improved infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for fixed broadband and leased lines, while the Maldives announced the successful rollout of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite internet services.

The event provided a platform for South Asian nations to exchange best practices, coordinate efforts, and collaborate on solutions to shared challenges in the telecommunications sector. With Afghanistan’s participation, the event signifies the growing importance of regional cooperation in navigating a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Read More