The State of Qatar recently participated in a high-level panel discussion at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The session, titled “Laying the Foundation for a Digital Future for All,” focused on strategies to promote an inclusive and secure digital future, as well as the opportunities presented by the Global Digital Compact and artificial intelligence. Minister of Communications and Information Technology HE Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai represented Qatar at the session, which covered a range of topics including digital technology, peace and security, and sustainable development and financing.
During the session, a consortium of UN programs, including the United Nations Development Program, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, and the International Telecommunication Union, organized the discussion. HE Al Mannai also took the opportunity to meet with key figures such as HE Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union, to discuss collaboration on international initiatives for inclusive and sustainable digital connectivity. They also explored ways to enhance technological innovation and cooperation in digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
In addition to meeting with the ITU Secretary-General, HE Al Mannai also held discussions with HE Amandeep Singh Gill, Head of the Secretariat of the UN Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation. The discussions focused on mechanisms for cooperation in digital transformation, capacity building in the digital sector, and the development of telecommunications infrastructure to support the Sustainable Development Goals. These meetings underline Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its relationships with international institutions and advancing technology in support of sustainable development.
This year’s United Nations General Assembly has the theme “Unity in Diversity: Promoting Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for All, Everywhere.” The general debates for the session are scheduled to begin on September 24 and will continue until the end of the month. The discussions and meetings held by Qatar at the UN General Assembly highlight the country’s dedication to promoting digital connectivity, cooperation, and innovation to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and foster a more inclusive and secure digital future for all. By participating in these high-level discussions, Qatar is demonstrating its commitment to leveraging technology for the benefit of all nations and supporting international initiatives for progress and development.