2 - Vision and Mission Vision: Towards digital citizenship and an advanced knowledge-based economy and support the transition to democracy At the current stage, the ICT sector needs to keep pace with the democratic transition and to support the country in its quest to realize various political, social and economic objectives. This can be achieved by investing , in Egyptians positive view of ICT tools and systems, adapting and developing them to serve the needs of a democratic society. This will include the development of applications that support digital citizenship, social participation and integration, which contribute to enhancing , the quality of life and protecting citizens rights and social justice. Mission: To develop a democratic knowledge-based society that supports a strong Egyptian economy and is based on equitable access to information and communications services, guaranteeing the digital rights of citizens and the development of a national industry based on human talent and creativity The objectives for the Egyptian ICT sector in the coming period are as follows: Amendment of existing legislation and/or enactment of new legislation appropriate , to the country s transformation and securing a legislative environment conducive to domestic and foreign investments and which supports the application of e-commerce and e-payment systems. 20 21 Expanding the scope of political participation and deepening the democratic practice at all levels using ICT tools and platforms, building on the key role these played in the 25 January Revolution. Availing information by the government to the public through appropriate channels to establish a relationship of trust based on transparency and interaction. These channels should include a forum for community dialogue allowing for an open discussion among citizens and between citizens and government concerning draft laws, decrees and national projects. Supporting the role civil society organizations active in the ICT sector, play in industry development through community exchange and coordination of efforts for the advancement of the sector. These efforts facilitate adoption and replication of best practices, reduce cost, maximize the return on efforts, and boost interaction between government institutions involved in or sponsoring efforts related to ICT systems. Developing a community vision for the ICT sector, based on the principle that development should occur not only in the public service sector but also in the managerial approach of the state and its institutions. Such a vision will facilitate the adaptation of ICT tools and systems to community needs, and will allow Egypt to move closer to achieving a digital society and digital citizenship. Continuation of the shift towards the export of high-value-added services, whereby the relevant authorities – MCIT, ITIDA and the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) – work together to promote high-value-added outsourcing services (including technical support and software development and localization), and to attract innovative companies able to motivate researchers to Egypt. Utilization of foreign skills and experience to expand high value added services, encouraging innovation, and boosting the local skills necessary for the development of the ICT sector. Utilization of the latest techniques and technologies, the most important of which include those related to 4G technology, Web 2.0, Internet Protocol version 6 (IPv6), highspeed broadband, next-generation networks, smart phones and related technologies, and environment-friendly ICTs, including smart grids and smart buildings. Developing the Egyptian software and ICT systems industry, and promoting of its exports, to establish a strong “Made in Egypt” brand. Developing the National Broadband Strategy to ensure universal internet access in Egypt and the introduction of applications in areas of growing importance, such as climate change adaptation, energy efficiency and sustainable development.