PUNTA CANA – Liberty Caribbean CEO Inge Smidts has called for closer cooperation among Caribbean governments, regulators, telecommunications providers and technology companies as the region undergoes a period of rapid digital and technological transformation.
Smidts delivered the Headline Sponsor Keynote Address during the second day of the 41st CANTO Annual Conference & Trade Exhibition, which brings together key players from the Caribbean telecommunications and technology sectors.
During her address, Smidts said the Caribbean has made significant progress in improving connectivity but continues to face challenges related to infrastructure, investment, regulation and the introduction of new technologies.
According to Smidts, no single country or company can successfully achieve the digital transformation the Caribbean requires on its own.
She stressed that governments, regulators, telecommunications providers, technology companies and entrepreneurs will have to work more closely together to develop the region’s digital ecosystem and ensure that technological progress translates into economic opportunities.
Investment in Digital Skills
Smidts also highlighted the importance of investing in digital skills and preparing the next generation for an economy increasingly driven by technology.
As artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud services and other technologies become more important to businesses and governments, the Caribbean will need a workforce equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate in the changing economy.
Her message comes as regional leaders and telecommunications executives gather at CANTO to discuss the Caribbean’s digital future, including connectivity, emerging technologies and the regulatory environment.
Curaçao is also represented at the conference by Minister Charles Cooper, who has participated in discussions with regional counterparts on connectivity, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
From Connectivity to Economic Growth
Smidts argued that expanding connectivity alone is not enough. The region must create the conditions that allow improved digital infrastructure to generate broader economic development.
Central to that effort, she said, are regional cooperation, continued innovation and a regulatory environment capable of supporting investment and technological development.
Her message was that the Caribbean’s next phase of digital development will depend on its ability to turn stronger connectivity into economic growth and new opportunities for its people.