Tunis — Minister of Information and Communication Technology Mongi Marzoug said the new concept of "cloud computing" has a great importance given the economic, technological and social advantages it offers.

During a conference on "cloud computing," held Monday in Tunis by telecom operator "Tunisie Télecom" and the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the Minister said this model allows an online access of services and resources, such as networks, servers and software.

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing and storage capacity as a service to heterogeneous community of end-recipients. It entrusts services with a user's data, software and computation over a network.

The Minister emphasised the advantages of cloud computing, particularly enhancing cost efficiency of computer equipment and programmes and strengthening the competitiveness and job capacity of small and medium enterprises to boost the economy.

Cloud computing is a basic element in the development strategy of digital services and applications of the administration and helps identify solutions likely to provide best services to citizens, he added.

CEO of "Tunisie Télecom" Ali Ghodhbani stressed the need to enhance skills in this area and encourage specialised companies to offer services with high added value for the public and private sectors.

Representative of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Bilel Jamoussi pointed to the importance of exporting the concept of cloud computing, particularly to African countries, given the advantages it offers to citizens and companies.

The two-day conference is attended by 89 participants from 30 countries.