The objective of the MoU is to build a non-exclusive partnership that will see information on internet issues flow in both directions, promote regional telecommunications and information technology standards, and aid in transferring skills, knowledge, and capacity to the Pacific Islands region.

“This partnership is a great opportunity for active participation and collaboration of our members in the ICANN process,” added Maui Sanford, President of PITA. “The MOU gives all of our stakeholders – telecommunications companies, vendors, ISPs, and country-code top-level domains – a chance to actively engage in the ICANN discussions as the Internet is part and parcel of the ICT industry.”

The parties agreed last week to:

• Exchange information on issues relating to the internet emerging from the respective organization’s work;
• Foster a network of stakeholders and decision makers who can contribute to discussions of Internet security, stability, and interoperability; and
• Provide information about respective policies under development and enable improved participation.

“Sharing information is at the heart of Internet – and it’s important that we exchange ideas that will make sure the Internet works as well as possible no matter where you are,” Dr Twomey concluded. “This new relationship will help Pacific Islands meet the unique challenges they face, and will help ICANN continue with its mission of ensuring the stable and secure operation of the Internet’s unique identifier system for users across the globe.”