The Honourable Charles Cooper, Minister of Traffic, Transportation and Urban Planning for Curaçao (centre) is joined by Secretary General of CANTO, Teresa Wankin, (L) Chairman Mike Antonius (R) and other members of the CANTO Board at the opening of CANTO Connect 2025 and 41st AGM
WILLEMSTAD - Leaders, innovators, and policymakers from the telecommunications sector across the Caribbean have gathered in Curaçao for CANTO Connect 2025 and the 41st Annual General Meeting (AGM). The three-day event, which officially opened on January 26 at the Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort, is co-hosted by the Regulatory Authority of Curaçao (RAC) and runs through January 28.This year’s conference centers on the theme, “Towards a Unified and Sustainable Gigabit Society,” addressing the challenges and opportunities of advancing connectivity, stimulating economic growth, and promoting sustainability throughout the region.
Building the Caribbean Gigabit Society
Addressing the delegates at the opening ceremony, CANTO Chairman Mike Antonius emphasized the importance of collective commitment in overcoming challenges and delivering on the promise of a connected, inclusive and sustainable Caribbean.
Mike Antonius, CANTO Chairman, delivers remarks at the opening ceremony of CANTO Connect 2025 and 41st Annual General Meeting held on January 26 at the Renaissance Wind Creek Resort in Curaçao
Chairman Antonius stated, “We understand that the road to a Caribbean Gigabit Society is not without its challenges. However, our collective efforts can overcome these hurdles and bring our vision to life. The resulting report, ‘Towards a Caribbean Gigabit Society 2030,’ presents a vision and a plan to transform the Caribbean into a sustainable, digitally integrated, and globally competitive region. Central to this vision is the commitment to universal access to high-speed internet through the deployment of 5G networks and Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH). This plan prioritizes digital inclusion, economic growth, and the reduction of social and economic disparities that hinder regional development.”
He added, “We have faced regulatory hurdles, worked to bridge the digital divide, and navigated a rapidly changing technological landscape. Yet, through these challenges, we have seen progress—progress fueled by our determination and the strength of this community. Our work has extended beyond telecommunications, recognising the interconnectivity of industries. From exploring fintech opportunities to advancing green energy and promoting smart agriculture, we have demonstrated how digital transformation can build a stronger, more resilient Caribbean. By collaborating across industries, we are creating a region ready to embrace the future confidently, with no one left behind.”
Teresa Wankin, Secretary General of CANTO, welcomes delegates to the CANTO's first event for 2025
Curaçao: Host and Founding Member
Delivering opening remarks, Secretary General of CANTO, Teresa Wankin, thanked Curaçao for their support, noting that, as one of CANTO’s founding members, the country holds a special place in the organization’s history and future. She added that the island’s role as host of this year’s event underscores its growing importance as a hub where innovation and progress meet culture and tradition. Curacao’s Minister of Traffic, Transportation, and Urban Planning, the Honourable Charles Cooper, who also holds the portfolio for Economic Development, reminded delegates of the role that telecoms plays as the backbone of modern economies. He noted its transformative impact on bridging global connections, empowering businesses, and fostering innovation.“With telecommunications, island nations like Curaçao bridge gaps to global markets, enabling trade, entrepreneurship, and digital education. These technologies also play a key role in sustainability, reducing carbon emissions and promoting remote work within a green economy,” said Minister Cooper.The Minister also commended CANTO for creating platforms for dialogue, and reaffirmed Curaçao’s commitment to aligning economic development with environmental responsibility to benefit future generations.
The CEO of the Regulatory Authority of Curaçao, Curt Belfor, also reflected on the island’s unique position, stating “Curaçao offers the perfect backdrop for these discussions. Our island is evolving rapidly, especially in telecommunications, with recent milestones and future targets. But more than this, Curaçao is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the incredible results that collaboration can bring.”CANTO Connect 2025 promises to deliver in-depth discussions on critical issues shaping the future of telecommunications in the Caribbean. These discussions are supported by event partners such as GSMA and the Curaçao Fintech Association and sponsors including Bankai, OneComm, Brava, Cable & Wireless Communications, Calix, and Aliv.
Proud to co-host - CEO of the Regulatory Authority of Curacao, Curt Belfor, shares Curacao's milestones, noting that the island is a testament to resilience, creativity and the power of collaboration
Left- His Excellency Leon R. Williams, The Bahamas Ambassador to the ITU and former CANTO Chairman shares a light moment with current Chairman Mike Antonius and Secretary General Teresa Wankin
CANTO’s work over the three days will serve as a foundation for continued progress in creating a more connected, inclusive and sustainable Caribbean. Though challenges exist, so do the opportunities to promote economic growth, reduce disparities, and ensure that every citizen in the region benefits from the digital revolution.