Leading names from government and industry from across the world of digital technology will convene for the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Telecom World 2017 from 25-28 September in Busan, Republic of Korea, itself one of the most technologically advanced nations on earth and top of ITU's ICT development index in 2016. Together they will debate, showcase, network and more under the theme of smart digital transformation, global opportunity.
As the global tech event for corporates, governments and small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ITU Telecom World 2017 comprises an exhibition for digital solutions, forum for debate and sharing knowledge, a networking hub connecting nations, individuals and organizations, and an awards programme recognizing innovative information and communications technology (ICT) solutions with social impact.
The exhibition will spotlight the vibrant technology sectors, SMEs and initiatives of countries from around the world, with a strong focus on emerging markets – including Azerbaijan, Republic of Korea, Nigeria, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
"Smart technology is the future, interconnecting all industry sectors and societies, changing how we live, work and do business, and it's a future brimming with potential," said ITU Secretary-General Houlin Zhao. "Through industry, thematic and national pavilion exhibits, debates, networking and awards, supported by showcases of the expertise of all three ITU sectors, I am confident that ITU Telecom World 2017 will offer the best opportunities for leaders of government and industry to come together and explore the potential of these technologies, for the benefit of all."
Leading industry players including KT, the Republic of Korea's largest telephone company, will showcase myriad technologies spanning artificial intelligence (AI), smart cities, 5G and more. ITU will share the activities, trends and technologies being developed within ITU's broad technological and policy agenda.
ITU's Development Sector (ITU-D), which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary, will present the work done with its members to accelerate digital inclusion and catalyse digital transformation, while building innovation capacity towards realization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
ITU's Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) will showcase their areas of expertise in the exhibition such as 5G, satellite and broadcasting. ITU-R will also celebrate the 90th anniversary of its Study Groups, established in 1927 under the former International Radio Consultative Committee.
Within its Smart ABC programme, ITU's Standardization Sector (ITU-T) will showcase smart technologies, specifically Smart AI, Smart Banking and Smart Cities, as well as host meetings of leading decision-makers in these fields.
The Forum at World Telecom 2017 will include a world-class programme of interactive debates with informed opinion, expert speakers, international perspectives – and a high-level Leadership Summit open to media. From smart cities to the Internet of Things, 5G, automation, AI, connected cars, digital citizenship, digital finance services, emerging security challenges and cross-sector partnerships in pursuit of the SDGs, the forum will explore the policies, technologies and strategies driving the digital economy.
The call for forum speakers is now open, seeking expert views, opinions, perspectives and thought-leadership on all aspects of smart digital transformation. Applications will be considered until 5 May 2017.
Additionally, the ITU Telecom World Awards initiative for innovative ICT-based solutions with real social impact is now open to SMEs and larger corporate initiatives, offering high-level networking and partnership opportunities, United Nations recognition, and global visibility. All exhibitors and sponsors at ITU Telecom World 2017 are eligible to enter; SMEs may also enter with an application fee that includes a free exhibition pass and full access to the SME programme of workshops, targeted networking, capacity-building and pitching sessions.
Media accreditation will be open from 20 June 2017.
For more information, please contact:
Jennifer Ferguson-Mitchell
Senior Media and Communications Officer, ITU
Tel.: +41 22 730 5469
Mobile: +41 79 3374615
E-mail: jennifer.ferguson-mitchell@itu.int
