UN praises Egypt's digital infrastructure for economic transformation
Speaking to the Middle East News Agency in Amman on the sidelines of the Digital Cooperation and Development Forum, which concluded in Jordan under the theme 'Our Vision, Our World, Our Future,' Gill emphasized that leaders in the Arab world are now fully aware of the potential and advantages of digital transformation. Many nations, including Egypt, are investing in infrastructure to support their transition to a digital economy.
Gill pointed out that Egypt has developed a robust digital infrastructure, allowing citizens greater connectivity to the digital economy. He noted that countries are now implementing the right policies and frameworks, enabling private sector investment in digital expansion. This, in turn, is fostering a more dynamic business environment, particularly for startups that rely on digital infrastructure for growth.
Discussing international collaboration, the UN official stated that the United Nations has brought the global community together to drive digital transformation and implement the Digital Compact, which serves as the main platform for international cooperation in the sector.
Gill stressed the need for global cooperation to harness the power of technology and its impact on youth employment. He underscored the importance of maximizing the benefits of digital advancements, as technology has no borders. This, he said, would lead to economic gains, particularly for young people seeking career opportunities and professional growth.
Despite the positive outlook, Gill acknowledged challenges in securing resources and investments, particularly in artificial intelligence infrastructure and training. He noted that AI development requires substantial investments and that talent acquisition remains a significant challenge. However, he highlighted that the Arab world is rich in skilled professionals, citing the region's historical contributions to fields like algebra and mathematics as a testament to its potential.
Regarding cooperation between the United Nations and the Arab League, Gill revealed that he held discussions with Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit during the forum in Jordan. Their talks focused on increasing the Arab League's role in global digital governance and establishing future AI governance frameworks. They also discussed strategies to strengthen regional collaboration on digital transformation.
Expressing optimism about digital connectivity and its role in regional trade expansion, Gill emphasized that enhancing digital infrastructure will significantly boost trade within the region. He highlighted ongoing efforts to advance digital transformation in East, South, and West Africa, and shared insights from his discussions with Rola Dashti, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA). These talks explored ways to implement the Digital Compact across all UN member states in the region.
The increasing investments in Egypt's digital transformation reflect a broader regional shift toward modernization. As global cooperation on digital policies strengthens, Egypt and other Arab nations are poised to capitalize on emerging technological opportunities, driving economic growth and innovation.
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