The ITU World Radiocommunication Conference in Sharm El-Sheikh, in session 28 October – 22 November, addressed requirements for some leading edge technological innovations. These include identifying additional frequency bands for International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT), enabling the rollout of IMT-2020 (5G) networks, as well as for High-Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) – ­ radios on platforms hovering in the stratosphere to facilitate telecommunications within a wide coverage area below; new non-geostationary satellite systems using multiple, multi-satellite constellations; earth stations in motion (ESIM) communicating from aircraft, maritime vessels and land vehicles with satellites in the geostationary orbit (GSO); portable and mobile equipment communicating over wireless access systems, including radio local area networks (WiFi); radiocommunication systems between train and trackside systems to meet the demands of a high-speed railway environment; modernizing the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) to expand geographical coverage, including in Polar regions; and improving flight tracking with an updated Global Aeronautical Distress and Safety System.

What: Press conference on World Radiocommunication Conference 2019 (WRC-19)

When: Friday, 22 November 2019 at 16:30 EET (14:30 UTC)

Where: Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, International Congress Centre (SHICC). Remote virtual participation available for accredited media with interpretation in 6 UN languages (English, Arabic, Spanish, French, Russian & Chinese).

Why: Briefing on agreements reached at WRC-19

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WRC-19 addressed requirements for some next-generation technological innovations set to play a pivotal role in tomorrow's digital economy with immense implications for the trillion-dollar telecommunication and ICT industry. Agreements reached at the conference are set to unlock great potential for human progress advancing many of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will provide the tools for effective climate action, forge pathways for improved health care, foster sustainable agricultural practices, improve energy efficiency, facilitate Intelligent Transport Systems, make cities smart and communities more sustainable, foster safer travel on land, on air and at sea, and allow countries to participate in the digital economy by providing access to faster and more affordable broadband connectivity, especially in currently underserved communities.

ON-SITE PARTICIPATION IN THE PRESS CONFERENCE

Note for UN-accredited media: UN-accredited media are only required to email pressreg@itu.int expressing their intention to participate. They will be automatically pre-registered.

Note for general and local media: Media are recommended to submit their request for accreditation and registration in advance to allow enough time for verification of media credentials.

Foreign media requiring a visa to enter Egypt should submit their request for registration and accreditation as soon as possible to receive their confirmation letter for their visa application. See EGYPT VISA APPLICATIONS.