Saudi Arabia Chairs Delegation at WSIS+20 in Geneva

Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) Governor Dr. Mohammed Altamimi chaired the Kingdom’s delegation at the opening of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20) held in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 27, 2024. The high-level event, organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), brought together global leaders, including ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Abdulmohsen Majed Bin Khothaila, Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, and senior officials from governmental and private entities.

Context and Background

WSIS+20 marks two decades of international efforts to harness information and communication technologies (ICT) for sustainable development and to bridge the digital divide. The annual forum serves as a platform to review progress, share best practices, and foster collaboration among ITU member states and stakeholders. Saudi Arabia’s active participation underscores its commitment to global digital cooperation and its leadership in advancing the ICT sector.

Key Details

In his address, Dr. Altamimi emphasized the Kingdom’s dedication to promoting collaboration and enabling pathways to implement WSIS+20 outcomes and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through collective efforts. He highlighted that sustainability is a top priority for Saudi Arabia, noting that the Kingdom achieved 96% of the ITU’s “Connect 2030” program goals in 2022. This achievement reflects the success of initiatives supporting innovation in the ICT sector, bridging the digital divide, and fostering collaboration among ITU members and stakeholders.

Dr. Altamimi also outlined the Kingdom’s aspirations to explore new horizons through space technologies, including hosting the first Space Debris Conference in collaboration with ITU and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA). This initiative aims to raise international awareness about the challenges posed by space debris and to create a global platform to address this critical issue.

Implications and Impact

Saudi Arabia’s leadership at WSIS+20 reinforces its role as a key player in shaping the global digital agenda. The Kingdom’s progress in ICT, coupled with its commitment to sustainable development, positions it as a model for other nations. The planned Space Debris Conference highlights Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to addressing emerging challenges in outer space, fostering international cooperation, and contributing to the safety and sustainability of space activities.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s engagement at WSIS+20 aligns seamlessly with Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious blueprint for economic diversification and social modernization. By prioritizing digital transformation, innovation, and sustainability, Saudi Arabia is building a knowledge-based economy that empowers its citizens and strengthens its global partnerships. As the Kingdom continues to host and lead international initiatives, it solidifies its position as a hub for technology and innovation, driving progress toward a sustainable digital future for all.

20 Questions

Q1. What is WSIS+20?

A1. WSIS+20 is the 20th anniversary edition of the World Summit on the Information Society, organized by the ITU. It reviews global progress in using ICT for sustainable development and bridging the digital divide, bringing together stakeholders from around the world.

Q2. Who led the Saudi delegation at WSIS+20?

A2. Dr. Mohammed Altamimi, Governor of the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), chaired the Saudi delegation at the opening of WSIS+20 in Geneva.

Q3. Where and when was WSIS+20 held?

A3. WSIS+20 was held in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 27, 2024, marking two decades of international cooperation in information and communication technologies.

Q4. Who else attended the event from Saudi Arabia?

A4. Abdulmohsen Majed Bin Khothaila, Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the UN in Geneva, along with senior officials from governmental and private entities, attended the event.

Q5. What key message did Dr. Altamimi convey?

A5. He emphasized Saudi Arabia’s commitment to promoting collaboration, implementing WSIS+20 outcomes, and achieving Sustainable Development Goals through collective efforts toward a sustainable digital future.

Q6. What is the ITU’s “Connect 2030” program?

A6. “Connect 2030” is an ITU initiative with specific goals for ICT development by 2030, focusing on growth, inclusiveness, sustainability, innovation, and partnership. Saudi Arabia achieved 96% of these goals in 2022.

Q7. How did Saudi Arabia achieve such a high score?

A7. Through initiatives that support innovation in the ICT sector, bridge the digital divide, and promote collaboration among ITU members and stakeholders, according to Dr. Altamimi’s remarks.

Q8. What is the significance of sustainability in Saudi Arabia’s digital strategy?

A8. Sustainability is a top priority, reflected in the Kingdom’s achievements and future plans, including space technologies for progress and sustainability.

Q9. What is the Space Debris Conference?

A9. It is a conference Saudi Arabia will host in collaboration with ITU and UNOOSA to raise awareness about space debris challenges and create a global platform to address this issue.

Q10. Why is space debris a critical issue?

A10. Space debris poses risks to satellites, space missions, and future exploration. International cooperation is needed to mitigate these threats and ensure sustainable use of outer space.

Q11. How does this event align with Vision 2030?

A11. It supports Vision 2030’s goals of digital transformation, innovation, and sustainability, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in technology and international cooperation.

Q12. What is the role of the CST in Saudi Arabia?

A12. The Communications, Space and Technology Commission regulates and develops Saudi Arabia’s ICT, space, and emerging technology sectors, aligning with national strategies.

Q13. How many goals of Connect 2030 did Saudi Arabia achieve?

A13. Saudi Arabia achieved 96% of the ITU’s Connect 2030 program goals in 2022, demonstrating strong commitment to ICT development.

Q14. What is the WSIS+20 annual forum?

A14. It is an annual forum organized by ITU to highlight progress of its projects and outcomes, promote international collaboration, and celebrate milestones like the 20th anniversary.

Q15. Who is Doreen Bogdan-Martin?

A15. She is the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a key figure in global ICT development, who attended WSIS+20.

Q16. What did Dr. Altamimi say about space technologies?

A16. He noted the Kingdom’s aspirations to explore new horizons through space technologies to achieve progress and sustainability for all.

Q17. How does Saudi Arabia bridge the digital divide?

A17. Through initiatives that promote ICT innovation, expand access, and foster collaboration among ITU members, as highlighted by Dr. Altamimi.

Q18. What is the significance of WSIS+20’s 20th anniversary?

A18. It celebrates two decades of global efforts in harnessing technology for sustainable development and bridging the digital divide, marking a milestone in international cooperation.

Q19. How does Saudi Arabia contribute to global digital cooperation?

A19. By chairing delegations, hosting conferences like the Space Debris Conference, and achieving high scores in ITU programs, Saudi Arabia actively shapes global digital policy.

Q20. What are the expected outcomes of Saudi Arabia’s participation?

A20. Strengthened partnerships, enhanced international collaboration in ICT and space, and further progress toward sustainable digital development, reinforcing the Kingdom’s global leadership.

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