The inaugural Pacific ICT Ministers Dialogue commenced this morning at the APEC Haus in Port Moresby with a common aim to come together, forge a bond of unity and collaboration and to chart a path towards a digitally connected Pacific region. Minister for Information Communication and Technology Hon. Timothy Masiu thanked all 11 delegates from their respective countries for traveling across the Pacific into Port Moresby. He said, this dialogue is not merely a congregation of officials but a celebration of collective willpower, dedication, and shared destiny. "Let us embark on this voyage together, my dear colleagues, with renewed purpose and a steadfast commitment to the ideals that underpin the Pacific ICT Ministerial Dialogue." "Let us harness the potential of collaboration, innovation, and technology to carve a brother digitally connected future for our Pacific region and our people." He further stated that, through their collective endeavours, they aim to address the common challenges and leverage the transformative power of digital technologies. The first day of the dialogue will come to a close this afternoon after the signing of the Deceleration on Digital Transformation of the Pacific and continue in Kavieng tomorrow, 29th August 2023 where the program will end. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Hon. John Rosso echoed and reinforced the sentiments expressed by the Prime Minister James Marape, during the welcome dinner held on Sunday 27th, reaffirming PNG's resolute dedication to the collective vision of "Smart Pacific-One Voice: Creating a digital future together for the Pacific”. "The words and visions articulated by our Prime Minister resonates deeply with the values and aspirations ingrained within our nation's fabric." “PNG remains unswerving in its commitment to nature an inclusive digital economy that elevates every citizen, transcending geographical confines and bridging the disparities in digital Access." Deputy Prime Minister Rosso further stated that, "With the theme of ‘Smart Pacific-One Voice: Creating a digital future together for the Pacific’ we acknowledge that connectivity stretches beyond accessibility." "It embodies the principals of quality, affordability, and inclusivity, ensuring that every Pacific islander reaps the benefits of the digital strides we are making." The dialogue has gone into sessions covering policy statements, multilateral context, status of ICT Developments and embracing Digital Transformation in the Pacific and will end with the Lagatoi Deceleration on Digital Transformation of the Pacific.