Riyadh, Saudi Arabia - Saudi Arabia and Iraq are set to strengthen their digital partnership, with both countries exploring joint investments in the field of information and communication technology (ICT).   

During a recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Iraqi Minister of Communications Hayam Al-Yasiri met with her Saudi counterpart, Abdullah Al-Swaha. The meeting focused on identifying new avenues for collaboration, including stimulating entrepreneurship, fostering innovation, and developing the digital economy.   

This move aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to establish the Kingdom as a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation. Key objectives include increasing the digital economy's contribution to GDP from 14% in 2022 to 19.2% by 2025, digitizing 92% of government services, and raising the ICT sector's GDP share to 4%.   

Iraq is also actively pursuing a digital transformation strategy to support both public and private sectors and drive economic growth.   

The two ministers emphasized the importance of integrated efforts to develop the digital environment, enhance capabilities, and strengthen collaboration in priority areas such as AI and infrastructure development.   

Regional and Global Collaboration:

This bilateral cooperation comes amidst a broader push by Saudi Arabia to strengthen its digital partnerships on the global stage.   

At the 19th Internet Governance Forum held in Riyadh earlier this month, Saudi Arabia explored potential partnerships with Germany, Japan, and France in emerging technologies, AI, and digital infrastructure. The Kingdom also unveiled the Riyadh Declaration, a commitment to developing inclusive and responsible AI technologies to address global challenges and drive economic value.   

In November, Deemah Al-Yahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization, met with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' Al-Sudani to discuss support for Baghdad's plans to develop its digital business and AI sectors.

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