In a meeting held on Sunday in Tehran, Iran’s ICT Minister Sattar Hashemi and Saudi Ambassador Abdullah bin Saudi Al-Enzi discussed enhancing cooperation in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. The two countries are focusing on collaborative efforts to boost data transit, cybersecurity, and communication infrastructure.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Data Transit and Regional Connectivity
The officials emphasized the importance of data transit between Iran, Saudi Arabia, and neighboring regions. This includes the movement of data from Iran to Saudi Arabia, extending to the Mediterranean Sea, Africa, Afghanistan, Central Asia, China, and the Caucasus. Strengthening these connections is seen as vital for improving regional digital infrastructure.
Cybersecurity and E-Government Development
Both countries also highlighted the potential for cooperation in developing communication infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and building e-government systems. These areas are critical for the modernization and security of both nations’ digital economies.
Collaboration on Technical Expertise and Scientific Exchange
Hashemi expressed Iran’s readiness to share scientific and technical knowledge, facilitate expert exchanges, and work on joint ICT projects. This collaboration could leverage both countries’ strengths, especially in areas like space technology, which has been a tool for promoting economic and scientific growth.
Recent Discussions and Initiatives
On December 28, 2024, Mohammad-Mohsen Sadr, the head of Iran’s Information Technology Organization, met with Mohammed Altamimi, head of Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space & Technology Commission, during the Saudi Arabia Internet Governance Forum. The meeting underscored both nations’ interest in advancing joint activities in ICT, artificial intelligence, and mutual infrastructure development.
The discussions also involved expanding cooperation between private sectors, particularly with Iranian firms contributing to Saudi ICT projects, and working together on AI, messaging platforms, and optical fiber projects.
Iran’s ICT Landscape
Iran’s ICT sector is governed by the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, which oversees all related activities. The government is focused on leveraging ICT to enhance citizens’ lives, with significant advancements in technology, such as the successful design and launch of a satellite. These technological achievements are seen as key drivers of Iran’s growth in the ICT field.
Conclusion
This collaboration signals a growing partnership between Iran and Saudi Arabia in the ICT space, aligning with their broader goals of enhancing regional connectivity and technological progress, which will contribute to economic growth and scientific advancements.
