DCO And League Of Arab States Sign MoU To Advance Digital Transformation And Economic Development

The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) has partnered with the League of Arab States (LAS) to foster a sustainable digital economy. This collaboration was formalised through a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed by LAS Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit and DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya on September 23, during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The agreement aims to enhance cooperation between the two organisations, focusing on digital market development and policy alignment. They will work together to promote innovation, research, and development within the digital economy. The MoU also includes efforts to support ethical artificial intelligence (AI) practices and improve digital infrastructure and governance.

Both organisations are committed to developing policies that support the digital economy. They plan to engage in joint research and studies to bridge the digital divide by enhancing skills and awareness. This collaboration is expected to accelerate digital transformation and economic growth across member states.

AlYahya highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, "Our mission is to elevate cooperation, mutual understanding, and coordination among our member states while fostering collaboration with non-member countries and entities. We aim to ensure that every nation, business, and individual has a fair opportunity to prosper in an inclusive, cross-border, and sustainable digital economy."

The DCO sees this MoU as a significant step towards empowering entrepreneurs and small businesses. AlYahya expressed optimism about working closely with LAS to help these enterprises grow. The collaboration aims to unify the region's vision for a digital future while advancing social and economic development sustainably.

Aboul Gheit emphasised the need for the Arab region to keep up with technological advancements. He stated, "It is fundamental that the Arab region keeps pace with the rapid technological changes shaping the future of the global economy." He stressed investing in technology education and ensuring access to digital tools as vital components of this effort.

Shared Commitment

The MoU underscores a shared commitment between DCO and LAS to leverage technology for combating poverty and enhancing security. Both organisations aim to foster sustainable development across LAS member states by supporting innovation and responsible AI use.

This agreement follows a meeting held in Cairo in May 2024 between DCO and LAS representatives. During this meeting, both parties reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening cooperation in various areas related to digital transformation.

This partnership marks a pivotal moment for both organisations as they work towards creating an inclusive digital economy that benefits all stakeholders involved.

With inputs from SPA