Riyadh, November 18, 2024 – Head of the Saudi General Court of Audit (GCA), Dr. Hussam bin Abdulmohsen Al-Angari, participated in the global summit for Supreme Audit Institutions (SAI) held on November 18-19 in Tbilisi, Georgia, named “Global Summit on SAI Audits Contributing to Digitalization and Sustainability”. The summit brought together leaders and heads of SAI worldwide, alongside the Saudi Ambassador to Georgia, Salman bin Abdulrahman Al Al-Sheikh.
Context and Background
The summit underscored the crucial role of Supreme Audit Institutions in advancing digitalization and sustainability, aligning with global efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr. Al-Angari’s participation highlights the Kingdom’s commitment to international cooperation and knowledge exchange, reflecting its proactive engagement in global governance forums.
Key Details
Speaking during a leaders’ session, Dr. Al-Angari emphasized that the Kingdom has made significant strides toward a more sustainable future since launching Saudi Vision 2030 in 2016. He noted that this progress is driven by a focus on economic diversification, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability. He highlighted the Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative, among other globally pioneering projects, as key pillars of this vision.
Dr. Al-Angari stressed the vital role of SAI in ensuring efficient and effective achievement of sustainable development and digital transformation goals. He emphasized adherence to transparency, accountability, and good governance in implementing national and international programs, reinforcing these institutions’ commitment to improving the efficiency of public financial resource management. He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s reliance on digital transformation as a key driver of good governance.
He referenced the United Nations E-Government Development Index (EGDI), which placed Saudi Arabia among the top 10 countries. The country jumped 25 positions in the 2024 index to achieve fourth place globally and first regionally, positioning itself among the leading countries in this field.
Implications
The summit provided a platform for sharing best practices and fostering partnerships among Supreme Audit Institutions globally. Dr. Al-Angari’s remarks underscored the Kingdom’s leadership in promoting transparency and accountability, which are essential for attracting investment and fostering sustainable economic growth. The recognition of Saudi Arabia’s digital government achievements signals its growing influence in shaping global standards.
Vision 2030 Alignment
Dr. Al-Angari concluded his remarks by affirming the role of SAI leaders in ensuring the implementation of sustainability strategies and institutional development to achieve the highest levels of accountability. He underscored the importance of utilizing data and modern technologies in decision-making to ensure transparency, effectiveness, and alignment with global goals. This participation reflects the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to Vision 2030, driving progress toward a diversified, technology-enabled, and sustainable economy, while strengthening its global partnerships.
20 Questions
Q1. Who participated in the global summit on behalf of Saudi Arabia?
A1. Dr. Hussam bin Abdulmohsen Al-Angari, Head of the Saudi General Court of Audit, represented Saudi Arabia at the summit.
Q2. Where and when was the summit held?
A2. The summit was held in Tbilisi, Georgia, on November 18-19, 2024.
Q3. What was the theme of the summit?
A3. The theme was “Global Summit on SAI Audits Contributing to Digitalization and Sustainability”.
Q4. Who else attended the summit alongside Dr. Al-Angari?
A4. The Saudi Ambassador to Georgia, Salman bin Abdulrahman Al Al-Sheikh, was present as well.
Q5. What did Dr. Al-Angari highlight about Saudi Arabia’s progress?
A5. He highlighted the Kingdom’s significant strides toward a sustainable future driven by economic diversification, technological innovation, and environmental sustainability.
Q6. Which initiatives were mentioned as pioneering projects?
A6. The Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative were highlighted.
Q7. What role do Supreme Audit Institutions play according to Dr. Al-Angari?
A7. SAIs play a vital role in ensuring efficient achievement of sustainable development and digital transformation goals through transparency, accountability, and good governance.
Q8. How did Saudi Arabia perform in the 2024 UN E-Government Development Index?
A8. Saudi Arabia jumped 25 positions to rank fourth globally and first regionally.
Q9. What is the significance of the EGDI ranking?
A9. The ranking positions Saudi Arabia among leading countries in e-government development, reflecting its digital transformation efforts.
Q10. How does digital transformation relate to good governance?
A10. Digital transformation is a key driver of good governance, enhancing transparency, efficiency, and effectiveness in public administration.
Q11. What is the Saudi General Court of Audit?
A11. The GCA is Saudi Arabia’s supreme audit institution, responsible for auditing public funds and ensuring accountability.
Q12. What is the Saudi Green Initiative?
A12. It is a national initiative aimed at combating climate change, reducing emissions, and increasing reliance on renewable energy.
Q13. What is the Middle East Green Initiative?
A13. It is a regional initiative led by the Kingdom to promote environmental sustainability and reduce carbon emissions in the region.
Q14. Why is the summit significant for Saudi Arabia?
A14. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to international cooperation and sharing best practices in audit, digitalization, and sustainability.
Q15. What did Dr. Al-Angari say about accountability?
A15. He affirmed that SAI leaders must ensure implementation of sustainability strategies and institutional development to achieve the highest levels of accountability.
Q16. How does the summit align with Vision 2030?
A16. The summit supports Vision 2030’s goals of transparency, digital transformation, and sustainable development, reinforcing the Kingdom’s global engagement.
Q17. What did Dr. Al-Angari emphasize about decision-making?
A17. He emphasized using data and modern technologies in decision-making to ensure transparency and effectiveness.
Q18. How does Saudi Arabia’s progress in digital government impact its global standing?
A18. The EGDI ranking highlights Saudi Arabia as a global leader in e-government, enhancing its reputation and influence.
Q19. What is the role of the Saudi Ambassador to Georgia at the summit?
A19. The ambassador attended to support the Saudi delegation and foster bilateral relations with Georgia and other participants.
Q20. What are the expected outcomes of Saudi Arabia’s participation?
A20. The participation strengthens partnerships, shares Saudi expertise, and reinforces the Kingdom’s leadership in promoting good governance and sustainability globally.
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