Public Consultation on Afghanistan Satelite Slot

 INTRODUCTION:

This Consultation Paper seeks views from the public on the planned implementation of additional satellite communications services for the people of Afghanistan.  We invite all interested persons to comment on the proposed approach and to identify any issues pertaining to the subject matter. 

Information and communication technology (ICT) is viewed as a basic enabler of social and economic discourse leading to the strengthening of civil society and the promotion of economic development.  Long distance electronic communication provided by satellite is an essential element to building an ICT infrastructure and to extend essential services and information throughout the nation.

To best serve the needs of the public it is important that the citizens and industry have a voice in determining how best to implement this capability so that the greatest benefit to the largest number of citizens can be realized; therefore, this Paper includes a questionnaire to assist the Ministry.  In addition to the questions and answers, general comments are highly encouraged.