• Economies analyze prevention, control and response mechanisms during crisis
• They also discuss a Mutual Recognition Agreement to standardize Telecommunications products testing processes

Peruvian Vice Minister of Communications, Gonzalo Ruiz, noted that APEC Economies, gathered in the 38th Telecommunications and Information Technologies Working Group since yesterday, are committed to improve telecommunication services and networks to rapidly and efficiently respond to any emergency or natural disaster.

He added that, during last year, human losses during crisis situations after an earthquake, hurricane or other emergency event have been meaningful. That is why it is very important to solve the communication network problems and traffic congestion in telephone lines. The main objective is to properly respond to emergencies. “Telecommunications are a key tool to respond to crisis situations and to establish prevention measures by improving the service and the speed of the network while reinforcing human capabilities”, he highlighted.

Likewise, during the session “Telecommunications for Disasters Management: Best Practices Workshop”, Peru will make a presentation on the measures implemented to face a crisis situation, such as the creation of the Emergency Network that limits the phone calls duration and the Emergency System for High-Level Government Authorities.

Later, George Tannahill, officer of the American Federal Communications Commission said that APEC Economies have been working on the creation of a Mutual Recognition Agreement to standardize the conformity assessment process of new telecommunication products, so as to reduce time and cost to make these technologies enter into the different markets of the Asia-Pacific region, widening their coverage.

During this 38th Telecommunications and Information Technologies Working Group Meeting, APEC Delegates are also discussing some regulatory aspects, measures to reduce the digital gap and, also, the possibility of expanding connectivity of Member Economies in rural areas.