The Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development was a partner at the leading Baltic region 5G technology conference, "5G Techritory," which took place on October 30-31 in Riga. The conference's second day was opened by Minister Inga Bērziņa, who highlighted the importance of 5G and 6G technologies in building a secure digital ecosystem, as well as the role of innovation in fostering sustainable economic development and public safety. Deputy State Secretary on Digital Transformation issues Gatis Ozols also presented the implementation of the European Digital Identity Wallet.
Minister Inga Bērziņa stated, “Today, we are discussing not only the implementation of 5G and the development of 6G but also a new way of thinking in the era of connectivity and the economy at large. This includes the use of artificial intelligence (AI) systems, global collaboration, and the promotion of environmentally friendly processes. Innovation, connectivity, a trustworthy digital environment, digital skills, and the extensive application of AI and quantum technologies are priorities for our country’s digital development. The 5G Techritory forum broadens our perspective at both the national and international levels.”
On the first day of the conference, Deputy State Secretary on Digital Transformation issues Gatis Ozols participated in a panel organized by VARAM titled "E-Identity Innovation: Building Secure Digital Wallets for EU Citizens." Representatives from Lithuania, Estonia, and Belgium also took part in the discussion. The panel addressed the digital wallet initiative, a mobile application that will enable citizens to securely, quickly, and conveniently verify their identity in the digital environment. Attendees were also introduced to the progress of the NOBID pilot project under the Digital Europe program, which is currently testing various applications of the European Digital Identity Wallet to facilitate more efficient national wallet implementation.
Several important meetings took place during the conference, including with Benjamin Brake, Head of Digital and Data Policy department at the German Federal Ministry of Digital Affairs and Transport, where collaboration opportunities between Latvia and Germany in the digital sector were discussed. An agreement was reached to enhance cooperation in the field of AI, supporting companies that incorporate AI solutions in their products and services. Gatis Ozols also participated in an AI-focused discussion organized by the Investment and Development Agency of Latvia with global technology companies, where he introduced the concept of an AI center and discussed the role of public administration in fostering collaboration.
Minister Inga Bērziņa opened the second day of the conference with a speech addressing the significance of digital technology development for future society. In her remarks, the Minister emphasized the role of 5G and 6G technologies in creating a secure digital ecosystem while also highlighting the need to develop national-level communications infrastructure and ensure continuous 5G coverage. She underscored the importance of innovation for sustainable economic development and public safety, stressing the role of secure networks, data, and quantum technologies in building a trustworthy data economy and digital society. The Minister called for examining both the opportunities and risks associated with technology, while emphasizing the need for a reliable and secure digital environment built through collaboration between governments, technology companies, and society.
Discussions explored the impact of 6G connectivity on society and industry, as well as Europe’s leadership in the 6G era, with a focus on sustainability and security values. The latest advancements in quantum technology and European countries' contributions to global quantum research and innovation were also highlighted. The conference brought together over 600 experts, policymakers, and technology leaders from across Europe to discuss contemporary challenges and opportunities in the areas of 5G and digital identity.
5G Techritory 2024 is Europe’s leading 5G ecosystem forum, held for the seventh year and organized by the State Joint Stock Company "Electronic Communications Office of Latvia" in cooperation with the Latvian Investment and Development Agency, The Ministry of Smart Administration and Regional Development, and the International Telecommunication Union. The forum’s strategic partner is Latvian Mobile Telephone (LMT) and is supported by the Nordic Council of Ministers and the European Regional Development Fund.
Author: Public Relations Department