Saudi Minister Meets UN Official in New York

New York, September 22, 2024 — Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha met with United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua in New York to discuss the Kingdom’s leading role in global digital cooperation. The high-level meeting, held on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly, focused on Saudi Arabia’s contributions to the Global Digital Compact and the “Our Common Agenda” declaration, according to an official statement from the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

Context and Background

The meeting underscores Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in shaping international digital policies and sustainable development frameworks. The Global Digital Compact, a key initiative of the UN Secretary-General, aims to establish shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future. Saudi Arabia has been an active participant in these discussions, aligning its Vision 2030 goals with global efforts to bridge digital divides and promote inclusive technology. The “Our Common Agenda” declaration, launched in 2021, seeks to reinvigorate multilateralism and address critical challenges such as climate change, inequality, and digital governance. Saudi Arabia’s engagement reflects its commitment to these multilateral principles.

Key Details

During the meeting, Eng. Al-Swaha and Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua explored avenues to enhance Saudi talent and capacities to support the UN’s work in the Middle East and globally, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The discussion also covered preparations for the upcoming Internet Governance Forum (IGF), which Saudi Arabia will host later this year. The IGF is a global platform for multistakeholder dialogue on internet governance issues, and Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the event highlights its leadership in fostering international cooperation on digital policies. The Minister emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to empowering youth and advancing digital skills as part of its national transformation.

Implications and Impact

This meeting signals Saudi Arabia’s deepening partnership with the United Nations on digital and sustainable development issues. By leveraging its technological expertise and resources, the Kingdom aims to contribute meaningfully to global efforts in achieving the SDGs, particularly those related to innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive economic growth. The discussions also position Saudi Arabia as a bridge-builder between developed and developing nations in the digital realm. The upcoming IGF in Saudi Arabia is expected to draw thousands of participants from around the world, further solidifying the Kingdom’s role as a convener of global dialogues on critical issues.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s active engagement in international digital governance aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030, which seeks to diversify the economy, empower citizens, and enhance the Kingdom’s global standing. By investing in digital infrastructure, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable development, Saudi Arabia is not only transforming its own society but also contributing to a more connected and equitable world. The meeting between Eng. Al-Swaha and Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua exemplifies the Kingdom’s dedication to international cooperation and its proactive role in shaping a prosperous future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. Who met in New York on September 22, 2024?

A1. Saudi Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Al-Swaha met with UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua.

Q2. What was the main purpose of the meeting?

A2. The meeting aimed to discuss Saudi Arabia’s leading efforts in the Global Digital Compact and the “Our Common Agenda” declaration, and to explore ways to enhance Saudi talent for UN work.

Q3. What is the Global Digital Compact?

A3. The Global Digital Compact is a UN initiative to establish shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future, which Saudi Arabia actively supports.

Q4. What is the “Our Common Agenda” declaration?

A4. The “Our Common Agenda” declaration is a UN framework launched in 2021 to strengthen multilateralism and address global challenges including digital governance.

Q5. How does Saudi Arabia support the UN’s work in the Middle East?

A5. Saudi Arabia supports the UN by enhancing its talent and capacities, contributing to sustainable development goals, and fostering regional cooperation on digital and economic issues.

Q6. What is the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)?

A6. The IGF is a global multistakeholder platform for dialogue on internet governance policies, which Saudi Arabia will host this year.

Q7. Why is Saudi Arabia hosting the IGF significant?

A7. Hosting the IGF highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in digital cooperation and its commitment to shaping global internet policies.

Q8. What role does Eng. Al-Swaha play in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation?

A8. As Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Al-Swaha drives Saudi Arabia’s digital agenda, aligning with Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and empower youth.

Q9. How does this meeting align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A9. The meeting advances Vision 2030 goals by promoting international partnerships, digital innovation, and sustainable development, enhancing the Kingdom’s global role.

Q10. What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

A10. The SDGs are a set of 17 global goals adopted by the UN to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.

Q11. How can Saudi talent support the UN’s global work?

A11. Saudi talent can contribute expertise in technology, innovation, and sustainable development to UN initiatives, particularly in the Middle East.

Q12. What is the significance of the 79th UN General Assembly?

A12. The 79th UN General Assembly brings world leaders together to address global challenges, and Saudi Arabia’s participation showcases its active role in multilateralism.

Q13. What did the ministry’s statement say about the meeting?

A13. The statement highlighted discussions on Saudi efforts in the Global Digital Compact, enhancing capacities for UN work, and preparations for the IGF.

Q14. How does Saudi Arabia contribute to global digital governance?

A14. Saudi Arabia contributes by participating in international forums, hosting events like the IGF, and promoting policies for an inclusive digital economy.

Q15. What is the expected outcome of hosting the IGF?

A15. Hosting the IGF is expected to foster global dialogue on internet governance, showcase Saudi digital advancements, and strengthen international cooperation.

Q16. How does this meeting reflect Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy?

A16. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to multilateralism, constructive engagement, and leadership in addressing global digital and development challenges.

Q17. What benefits does Saudi Arabia gain from UN partnerships?

A17. Partnerships enhance Saudi Arabia’s global influence, facilitate knowledge exchange, and support its sustainable development and digital transformation goals.

Q18. What is the role of the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology?

A18. The ministry oversees Saudi Arabia’s ICT sector, drives digital innovation, and implements policies to achieve Vision 2030 objectives.

Q19. How does Saudi Arabia empower youth in digital fields?

A19. Saudi Arabia invests in education, training, and initiatives to develop digital skills among youth, preparing them for future roles in technology and innovation.

Q20. What message does this meeting send to the international community?

A20. It sends a message that Saudi Arabia is a proactive global partner, committed to digital cooperation, sustainable development, and a prosperous future for all.

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