Tourism in the Digital Cooperation Organization: Empowering talent and the future of artificial intelligence
His Excellency the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Engineer Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha, emphasized the need to strengthen international cooperation and unify global efforts to build a comprehensive and sustainable digital future. This came during his address at the General Assembly meeting of the Digital Cooperation Organization , where he stressed that the digital future must be built on the pillars of trust, empowering human talent, and harnessing emerging technologies, especially artificial intelligence, to serve humanity.
Digital Cooperation Organization: A Vision to Enable Prosperity
Minister Al-Swaha's remarks come at a time of rapid technological transformation worldwide, with the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) playing a pivotal role in shaping the global digital economy. Founded by several countries to promote digital prosperity for all, the DCO is an international platform that aims to empower women, youth, and entrepreneurs to capitalize on the opportunities offered by the digital economy and bridge the digital divide between nations.
Praise for the pioneering role of the State of Kuwait
During the meeting, Engineer Al-Swaha commended Kuwait's leading and distinguished role during its presidency of the organization. He highlighted the significant initiatives undertaken that contributed to strengthening trust in the digital space, including efforts to combat disinformation, ensure reliable data flows across borders, and launch the "Responsible Artificial Intelligence Framework." These steps are cornerstones in building a transparent and reliable global digital environment that encourages investment and innovation.
A rising economic and human power
His Excellency reviewed the growing impact of the Digital Cooperation Organization's member states, pointing to the figures that reflect the global weight of this organization. Member states represent approximately 10% of the world's population and contribute about $3.6 trillion to the global economy. More importantly, these countries achieve economic growth rates exceeding the global average, underscoring the effectiveness of investing in the digital economy as an engine for growth.
Investing in minds: 16 billion-dollar companies
The speech highlighted the importance of “developing digital talent” as the true fuel for digital transformation. Al-Swaha noted that the organization's member states are home to more than two million technology specialists, a tremendous human resource that has contributed in recent years to creating a fertile entrepreneurial environment, resulting in the emergence of 16 billion-dollar companies (unicorns) and successful business models that compete globally.
Saudi achievements embrace space and science
In reviewing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's national achievements, Al-Swaha explained that the Kingdom has made significant strides in the digital economy and scientific research. He cited inspiring examples reflecting scientific development in the region, pointing to advancements in artificial intelligence solutions that serve humanity in complex fields such as chemistry. He also highlighted the historic achievement of the first Arab Muslim woman (Rayana Barnawi) participating in a scientific mission to the International Space Station to conduct advanced medical research, underscoring the Kingdom's role in empowering women in the science and space sectors.
Sustainable infrastructure and partnerships
The Minister of Communications and Information Technology concluded by emphasizing that the path to the future requires continued investment in advanced digital infrastructure capable of meeting the demands of the smart age. He also called for strengthening effective international partnerships to achieve sustainable digital growth that places people at the heart of its concerns and propels the global economy toward broader horizons.
