International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit 2026

Porto, Portugal

The Second International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit took place on 2–3 February 2026 in Porto, Portugal. The International Submarine Cable Resilience Summit 2026 featured high-level sessions, and expert panels, with interactive discussions aimed at enhancing the resilience and financing of this vital infrastructure. The event offered a unique platform for Member States and stakeholders to share experiences, explore innovative solutions, and help in collaboratively shaping strategies to bolster the resilience of global connectivity infrastructure.

Under the High Patronage of the President of the Portuguese Republic, the Summit was hosted by the Government of Portugal and supported by ITU and the International Cable Protection Committee (ICPC), the Summit brought together governments, regulatory authorities, industry leaders, investors, submarine cable experts, international organizations and other stakeholders to continue to address the pressing challenges surrounding submarine telecom cable systems.

The 2026 Porto Summit was built on the momentum of the 2025 Abuja Summit and advances the international discussions on submarine cable resilience. 

Key Outcomes of the Porto Summit

Endorsement of the Porto Summit Declaration, which sets out practical, non-binding guidance to strengthen international cooperation and enhance the resilience and protection of submarine cable infrastructure worldwide.
Approval of the 3 IAB Working Group Recommendations. 
Streamline regulation and coordination to reduce delays and strengthen cross-border cooperation.
Strengthen data-driven risk prevention through better data, monitoring, and cable protection.
Accelerate repairs and joint maintenance via clear authority and operational coordination.
Mobilize sustainable investment for inclusive resilience, especially for small island, landlocked, and underserved regions.