Last Updated on November 13, 2026
Summary✨
- Hon. Dr. Bikram Timilsina called for stronger, climate-resilient telecommunications infrastructure at the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 in Doha.
- He emphasized the need for reliable communication networks to maintain connectivity during climate-related disasters in Nepal.
- The minister highlighted the importance of narrowing the digital divide, ensuring affordable connectivity, and greater access to AI and emerging technologies.
- He stressed international cooperation through technical assistance and capacity development for an inclusive digital future.
- The conference serves as a platform for member states to discuss global telecommunications and digital development policies.
Hon. Dr. Bikram Timilsina, Minister of Information and Communication of Nepal, has called for stronger, climate-resilient telecommunications infrastructure, affordable digital connectivity, and wider access to emerging technologies at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26) in Doha, Qatar.
The minister presented Nepal’s national policy statement at the international conference. During the event, he highlighted the need to make telecommunications networks more resilient to climate-induced disasters.
Nepal Highlights Disaster-Resilient Telecom Infrastructure
Addressing the conference, Minister Timilsina stated that climate-related disasters pose growing risks to critical telecommunications infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of strengthening communication networks and establishing reliable emergency communication systems to maintain connectivity during disasters.
Such infrastructure is particularly important for Nepal, where floods, landslides, and other natural disasters can disrupt communication services and isolate communities. Preparedness is key to ensure connectivity when natural calamities strike, especially during the monsoon season.
✅How Does Mobile network data Help Identify and Rescue Flood Victims?
Focus on Digital Inclusion and AI Access
The minister also emphasized narrowing down the digital divide by ensuring affordable and reliable connectivity for everyone. He called for greater access to artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, particularly in developing and least developed countries.
The minister also highlighted the importance of international cooperation through technical assistance, concessional financing, technology transfer and capacity development.
Nepal reiterated its commitment to an inclusive digital future where geographical and economic barriers do not prevent people from accessing and benefiting from technological progress.
The ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 provides a platform for member states to discuss global telecommunications and digital development policies and priorities.
