Colombia and China sign technological agreement

Photo: Minister Mauricio Lizcano’s X account.

Colombia’s Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MinTIC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). The agreement will focus on key areas such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, digital economy and connectivity, with the objective of boosting bilateral cooperation and improving the welfare of its citizens.

Colombian Minister of Technology, Mauricio Lizcano, underscored the relevance of this agreement as part of the joint work between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping. 

“We are aware of the progress China has made in technology, so signing this agreement not only serves as an exchange of best practices and new technologies for software development and digital transformation, but also allows us to strengthen the work we lead in the country in a multilateral way,” said Minister Lizcano.

China will share its experience in the development of emerging technologies such as cloud computing, big data and edge computing with Colombia. According to Lizcano, this agreement not only strengthens ties between the two nations, but also positions Colombia as a country committed to digital transformation.

The memorandum includes ten key points, ranging from the exchange of best technological practices to the development of digital infrastructure in rural areas of Colombia, a crucial aspect to improve connectivity in remote areas. It also seeks to strengthen radio spectrum management and optimize the country’s Internet networks.

Shan Zhongde, Vice Minister of China’s MIIT, stressed that technological cooperation between nations has a direct impact on people’s quality of life. With China’s extensive experience in building digital infrastructure in rural areas, the agreement is expected to contribute to digital inclusion in Colombia, especially in the most vulnerable areas.

In addition to technology sectors, the agreement also covers strategic areas such as health and education, where emerging technologies will play a crucial role in improving services and bridging the digital divide.

This agreement is part of a series of Chinese investments in Colombian infrastructure, such as the development of the Bogotá Metro and the Regiotram de Occidente tram network. Chinese technology companies, such as Huawei and ZTE, have already played a key role in the expansion of 4G networks in Colombia.

This agreement strengthens cooperation between Colombia and China in the technological field, opening new opportunities for the country’s economic and social growth through innovation and improved connectivity.

Main source:

Colombia y China firman acuerdo para impulsar la cooperación en el sector TIC – Revista Clevel.

Other related sources:

Colombia y China firman acuerdo de cooperación en el sector TIC – BluRadio