World telecommunications leaders on Monday opened high-level talks in Baku to craft a new global strategy aimed at closing the world’s persistent digital divide, as the International Telecommunication Union’s World Telecommunication Development Conference (WTDC-25) officially commenced.

The conference, hosted by the Government of Azerbaijan and organised by the ITU, brings together more than 1,500 delegates, including over 65 ministers and senior government officials, to negotiate a unified digital development roadmap for the 2026–2029 period.

Addressing the opening session, Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU secretary-general, said the world was at a pivotal moment, urging governments to accelerate efforts toward universal and meaningful connectivity. “We are in Baku to breathe new life into global digital development. Technology is reshaping our world faster than ever, and WTDC must create the conditions that ensure no one is left behind,” she said.

The WTDC, held every four years, sets the work priorities of the ITU’s Telecommunication Development Sector (ITU-D) and adopts programmes that guide digital transformation across regions. This year’s edition is expected to produce a new Declaration and Action Plan outlining global commitments to affordable Internet access, enhanced digital capacity, and stronger coordination among nations.

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Rashad Nabiyev, Azerbaijan’s minister of digital development and transport, welcomed delegates, noting the country’s growing role in global digital cooperation. “It is my honour to address you at the opening of the ITU World Telecommunication Development Conference here in Baku,” he said.

Delivering the greetings of President Ilham Aliyev, he expressed optimism that the talks would deliver a productive and ambitious outcome for the global community.

With disparities in connectivity still sharply defined by geography, gender, and income levels, WTDC-25 will place special focus on the needs of least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and small island developing states (SIDS).

Cosmas Luckyson Zavazava, ITU Telecommunication Development bureau director emphasized that while progress has been made in expanding global Internet access, millions remain excluded from digital opportunities. “Sustainable digital transformation calls for bold, human-centred action. WTDC-25 is our opportunity to forge the roadmap for the next four years. More needs to be done to empower communities and uplift lives,” he said.

The conference runs from 17 to 28 November, with ministers expected to outline national priorities during a two-day High-Level Segment before negotiations shift to technical matters. Delegates are expected to push for a consensus blueprint that accelerates global cooperation and expands access to affordable, high-quality Internet for all.