The concept of “economy” is rapidly changing around the world. From nationally and regionally oriented businesses with a strong focus on natural resources and manufacturing, we see a global economy rapidly shifting to service-based industries, particularly those using information and communication technology (ICT). This rapid change is opening many new opportunities.

The Mongolian people play an important role in boosting the country’s economy. By enabling ICT-related businesses to fully use the new opportunities that exist, new sources of sustainable income can develop and come to flourish. At the same time, ICT is an important tool in improving the efficiency and transparency of government. It can improve administrative services for the population and increase accountability in all fields. Information and Communication Technology not only opens up Mongolia to the world but also brings in new ideas and opportunities.

Mongolian people are generally well educated, and have many talents in technical fields. The digital infrastructure is in place and growing and there has already been experience with the implementation of ICT in a variety of fields. Mongolia has a large, young, eager and well-qualified workforce. Mongolia has a democratic and stable government, and information is open and accessible to everyone. All of these factors give Mongolia the potential to attract ICT-related business from overseas.

However, in order to benefit from these opportunities, we must act now, as many nations see their importance and are moving fast. This workshop is the starting point of a new era in Mongolia’s ICT history and will aim at building consensus and starting the actions needed to lead to the use of ICT for human development in the country.

It is our sincere hope that the invitees participating in this workshop will shape the future of Mongolia.