The Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications in Bahrain organized a workshop on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The session aimed at enhancing national capacity to achieve SDGs, aligning with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. Efforts include developing infrastructure, supporting digital transformation, and promoting sustainable transport solutions in coordination with relevant ministries.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) is considering closing the Free WiFi Mobility service provided by ISPs like WorldLink, following complaints from telecom companies that it has impacted their revenues. If implemented, this decision could inconvenience users who rely on free WiFi hotspots for internet access in public places.
Bahrain’s Finance Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa discussed the country’s pioneering role in cryptocurrency regulation and economic development in a recent parliamentary session. The government is enhancing its legal framework to support cryptocurrency, attract investment, and streamline procedures to boost economic growth and private sector participation.
The Nepal Telecommunications Authority (NTA) will grant 5G permissions to telecom companies within a week of their application submission. NTA confirmed that the necessary 21 MHz frequency could be provided. Currently, Nepal Telecom has tested 5G, while Ncell has delayed testing due to infrastructure investment concerns.
The Nepal government is considering reducing the telecom license renewal fee of Rs 20 billion to support the struggling industry. Telecom leaders, including Ncell’s CEO and NTA officials, urge policy revisions to attract investment, lower taxes, and address challenges like high renewal fees and foreign ownership regulations.
CITRA in Kuwait has introduced draft regulations for licensing wireless and internet service providers, setting annual license fees at KD 75,000 and KD 98,000, respectively. The regulations include requirements for bank guarantees, blocking harmful content, and approval processes. These new rules aim to regulate and enhance the local internet service sector.
The Iraqi Council of Ministers approved the creation of the National Mobile Telecommunications Company, in partnership with Vodafone Group, to operate the 5G national license. Additionally, key diplomatic agreements with Morocco, India, and Jordan were ratified, aiming to enhance Iraq’s global relations and regional connectivity.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) has submitted the Telecom Equipment Standards Regulations to the Cabinet Committee for Legislative Cases for review. The regulations focus on ensuring telecom equipment meets technical standards to enhance security, network performance, and consumer protection, with a dedicated directorate for compliance.
The NPRA has launched its services on the MyGov app, following directives from Bahrain’s leadership. Initially, the app offers passport and residency services, with plans to expand. MyGov integrates 41 services from nine entities, providing citizens and residents secure, unified access to various government services for easier access and efficiency.
CITRA has proposed new licensing regulations for wireless and Internet service providers in Kuwait, setting annual license fees at KD 75,000 for wireless providers and KD 98,000 for Internet providers. The new rules emphasize compliance with data security, national regulations, and control over network connections, aiming to enhance sector oversight.
