Number of Internet users records rise

/By Azernews/

By Nazrin Gadimova

The number of Internet users in Azerbaijan has reached 76 percent in 2016.

Elmir Valizade, the Deputy Minister of Communications and High Technologies made the remarks during a conference entitled ‘Internet and Users’ Rights’.

Valizade noted that about 65 percent of the total number of Internet connections in Azerbaijan falls on the broadband access services that have an ability to transport multiple signals and traffic types simultaneously.

Stressing that Azerbaijan’s territory is fully covered by mobile communication, the official added that access to the Internet is completely free, while providers’ activities do not require licensing.

"Users in Azerbaijan have an easy access to social networks and other services of the global network,” Valizade said. “We can say that all the mass media have its own Internet resources, pages on social networks what indicates the formation of online media in the country. The number of popular social networking sites users are growing.”

The deputy minister expressed regret that the extensive developments of the global network lead to illegal activities on the Internet, such as distributing child pornography, extremism, separatism, racism and many others.

"Often the development of a global network also contributes to the spread of such negative phenomena. From this perspective, there is a need for international cooperation to exchange experiences in determining the legal aspects,” Valizade added.

Touching upon Azerbaijan’s role in the “Eastertn Partnership” program, the deputy minister said the country is interested in developing cooperation with the EU in the field of information and computing technologies.

The Ministry is engaged in the strategic initiative for the harmonization of digital markets, and, at the same time, acts as its coordinator in the country within the framework of the "Eastern Partnership".

“Today, the field of ICT, including the Internet, is a rapidly developing area. The state pays special attention to this sphere, which is a priority for the economic development of the country,” Valizade said.

Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Communications and High Technologies is responsible for establishing and enforcing policy on electronic communications, acting both as a policymaking and as regulatory body. The Ministry also formulates proposals related to the provision of public investment in the ICT sector.