Riyadh: Saudi Arabia has been acknowledged by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) as a pivotal strategic partner in crafting a sustainable global digital future. The Kingdom has been instrumental in advancing international cooperation, fostering an inclusive digital ecosystem, and promoting knowledge exchange since joining the union in 1949 and becoming a member of the ITU Council in 1965.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the ITU highlighted Saudi Arabia's leadership, represented by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), and its pioneering initiatives, such as the establishment of the Digital Regulation Network. This network is designed to drive global regulatory innovation and enhance digital resilience. The CST's Digital Regulations Academy has successfully trained over 1,500 professionals from 190 countries in digital regulation and public policy, showcasing the Kingdom's commitment to knowledge sharing and international capacity building.
The ITU commended the inclusivity in the Kingdom's ICT sector, particularly the women's participation, which has reached nearly 35%, surpassing averages in Silicon Valley and the EU. Through the 'Building a Network of Women Leaders' initiative, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the ITU, is preparing 300 women for leadership roles and enhancing mentorship in the tech sector. The report also praised Saudi Arabia's leadership in promoting the 'circular economy in the ICT sector' and its efforts under the Green Digital Action initiative to accelerate circularity in the digital domain. The development of the C.I.R.C.L.E.S framework and regulations to manage e-waste and reduce carbon emissions were also noted as significant contributions.
Furthermore, the ITU emphasized Saudi Arabia's contributions to advancing artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, strengthening global digital resilience, and supporting international digital infrastructure security. The Kingdom's involvement in the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience is a testament to its commitment to digital infrastructure.
Saudi Arabia has bolstered its digital infrastructure through substantial investments in connectivity and advanced technologies, leading to reliable digital services, effective crowd management, and enhanced public safety via AI-powered systems.
The ITU concluded by recognizing Saudi Arabia's influential role in shaping the future of the sector globally. The Kingdom's active participation in international forums, like the World Summit on the Information Society Review Process, and the presentation of the 'Connecting Humanity' study, which offers innovative and cost-effective solutions to bridge the digital divide, were highlighted as key contributions. Saudi Vision 2030 continues to drive global digital inclusion and innovation.
