Cuba to strengthen cooperation and promote digital equity

Havana, August 26 - Cuba takes pride in hosting this event with the commitment to strengthen regional cooperation and promote digital equity, stated José Carlos Cruz Sandoval, Vice President of the Business Group for IT and Communications (GEIC).

The official explained that, despite the challenging conditions for development, the largest of the Antilles has seen a nearly tenfold increase in data consumption over the past decade.

During his remarks at the IV Youth Internet Governance Forum in the region, which is being held concurrently with the XXI Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF), convened by the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, the GEIC vice president reported that 4G technology now reaches about 50 percent of the country’s communities.

He noted that the Island has its own two digital payment platforms, a national antivirus, and a favorable legal framework that encompasses the national digital transformation policy, the 2030 digital agenda, and the strategy for the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI).

The expert also referred to governmental and civil society organizations such as the Joven Club de Computación y Electrónica and the Union of Computer Scientists of Cuba, which promote innovation and digital literacy.

In addition, he spoke about the solid business and scientific system that develops high-value-added products and services in collaboration with academia, science, and innovation.

He emphasized that the presence of young Cuban professionals is evident in each of these achievements, making them essential contributors.

Cruz Sandoval, speaking at the Meliá Internacional Varadero Convention Center, added that the region still faces gaps in connectivity, digital inclusion, and the urgent need for technological sovereignty.

This is precisely where youth leadership becomes crucial: creating local solutions, promoting innovation, and advocating for an open and secure Internet for everyone, he urged.

In an increasingly interconnected world, the Caribbean cannot fall behind; cultural diversity, creativity, and resilience are powerful assets that must be reflected in how the Internet is built and governed, he assured.

Rodney Taylor, Secretary General of the Caribbean Telecommunications Union, Tariq Mohammed, President of the IV Caribbean Youth Internet Governance Forum, and Ernesto Rodríguez Hernández, First Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Communications (Mincom), among other high-ranking officials from the region, attended the first day of the event, which will continue until the upcoming Friday. (Text and Photo: Cubasí)