Mr. Ajit Pai, Chairman of the FCC - Opening Ceremony at CANTO 2018
The opening ceremony of CANTO’s 34th Annual Conference and Trade Exhibition was addressed by Mr. Ajit Pai, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). His contribution to the discussions which will continue over the next few days, will surely be welcomed by the audience of Operators, regulators and suppliers who filled the room. Attendees at the Ceremony at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, in Panama certainly left satisfied that they had experienced a once in a lifetime opportunity.
In what was a wide ranging and comprehensive address, Mr. Pai shared his thoughts on his work and mission as FCC Chairman and his excitement to be at CANTO. He was delighted to be able to engage and exchange ideas so that he may contribute to finding solutions that work best for all stakeholders. He was very clear on the need to close the digital divide to ensure everyone benefits, which was possible by sharing not only challenges but also the approaches to dealing with them. In closing, he stated “we need to be good neighbours and work with each other” a message that resonated with the many Caribbean leaders present.
Mr. Euan Fannell, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Cable & Wireless Communications (CWC), the Conference’s headline sponsor, also delivered remarks at the opening ceremony. He noted that at the Conference, ministers, regulators and stakeholders must come to a position where they share the same ideals and vision, noting that there is a delicate balance between protection of content and property rights vs new players entry into the market space. He underscored the endeavor of his organization in the region to “drive digital transformation and adoption” and reassured all present that “CWC is here to stay and continue expanding its footprint”.
The Conference runs from July 22nd to 25th 2018 and continues tomorrow with sessions which include a keynote by Mr. Balan Nair, CEO, Liberty Latin America and a Ministerial round table.
About (CANTO)
CANTO is recognized as the leading trade association of the ICT sector for shaping information and communication in the Caribbean. Founded in 1985 as a non-profit association of 8 telephone operating companies, CANTO has now grown to over 125 members in more than 35 countries. A Board of Directors appointed by the membership directs policy of the Association. This strategy is executed by the staff of a permanent Secretariat based in Trinidad and Tobago.
