The
World Economic Forum in Davos served as the backdrop for a significant meeting
between His Excellency Abdullah Al-Swaha, Minister of Communications and
Information Technology of Saudi Arabia, and Her Excellency Paula Ingabire,
Minister of Information and Communications Technology and Innovation of Rwanda.
The discussions focused on forging stronger partnerships in innovation,
technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and capacity development under the
framework of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO).
The
meeting highlighted both nations’ shared commitment to leveraging advanced
technologies and fostering innovation as critical drivers of economic growth
and sustainable development. With Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizing
digital transformation and Rwanda’s ambition to become a regional hub for
innovation, the collaboration signals a new chapter in their bilateral
relationship.
H.E.
Abdullah Al-Swaha underscored Saudi Arabia’s dedication to advancing global
digital cooperation, particularly through initiatives that enhance AI
capabilities, support technological innovation, and develop digital talent. He
emphasized the role of the DCO as a unique platform for facilitating
cross-border collaboration and aligning efforts to build an inclusive and
prosperous digital future.
Similarly,
H.E. Paula Ingabire expressed Rwanda’s enthusiasm for working closely with
Saudi Arabia to harness the power of technology to address shared challenges
and unlock new opportunities. She highlighted Rwanda’s progress in building a
robust digital ecosystem and its commitment to fostering innovation that
empowers communities and drives socioeconomic development.
The
discussions also touched on capacity-building initiatives aimed at equipping
the next generation with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in a rapidly
evolving digital economy. Both ministers agreed on the importance of
cultivating talent pipelines and fostering knowledge exchange to bridge digital
divides and create equitable access to opportunities.
The
collaboration under the DCO umbrella promises to amplify the impact of shared
initiatives, enabling member states to collectively address global challenges
and harness the transformative power of technology.
By:
Nana Appiah Acquaye
