RIGA, Nov. 25 (Xinhua) -- The Latvian capital played host this week to 5G Techritory, a platform for policy makers and information and communication technology (ICT) experts to discuss the development of a robust and aligned 5G ecosystem in Europe and beyond.

Speakers at the forum also included Latvia's top state officials.

In his address, Latvian President Egils Levits underlined that 5G technology must become a tool at users' disposal whenever they need it. He noted that thanks to its extensive 4G network, Latvia was already well prepared for a sharp increase in data usage when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, and with demand for high-capacity connections growing, the rollout of 5G is the next necessary step.

"Our challenge is to build a future that would be more intelligent, connected and productive, but that would still be centered around man and be environmentally friendly," he said.

When it comes to the rollout of 5G, Latvia can rely on its well-developed information technology (IT) infrastructure and strong software development companies, Latvian Prime Minister Krisjanis Karins said at the forum. He said he was confident that Latvia will be prepared for the rollout of 5G solutions both for businesses and for individual users.

Latvia's Transport Minister Talis Linkaits said that the European Union's (EU) strategic goal is to provide uninterrupted 5G coverage in its urban areas and transport corridors by 2025.

Latvia has included a similar target in its next programming period. "To achieve that goal, a number of activities are being planned," the minister said.

By way of example, he cited the support measures for the construction of 5G infrastructure along the Via Baltica and Rail Baltica transport corridors. "These two corridors have been chosen because they are transport networks of national as well as European importance," Linkaits said.

The 5G Techritory, Europe's 5G ecosystem forum, was held in Riga between Nov. 22 and Nov. 25, bringing together leading experts in the field.