Jordan and ESCWA strengthen cooperation on AI and digital technologies

Jordan’s Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) have discussed expanding cooperation on artificial intelligence, digital transformation and emerging technologies to support the Kingdom’s digital economy agenda.

The meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in areas including AI governance, digital innovation, capacity building and technology-driven economic development. Both sides also explored opportunities to strengthen regional partnerships that support the responsible adoption of emerging technologies while accelerating digital transformation across the public and private sectors.

The discussions reinforce Jordan’s commitment to advancing its digital economy through international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

Regional collaboration is accelerating AI development

As artificial intelligence becomes a strategic priority across the Middle East, governments are increasingly working with regional and international organizations to develop common frameworks for AI adoption.

These partnerships support the exchange of expertise on AI policy, governance, ethics and workforce development while helping countries align digital transformation initiatives with international best practices. Regional cooperation also enables the sharing of research, technical capabilities and regulatory approaches that can accelerate responsible AI deployment.

Organizations such as ESCWA play an important role in facilitating cross-border collaboration on digital policy and innovation.

AI is becoming central to economic transformation

Governments are integrating artificial intelligence into national development strategies to improve public services, enhance productivity and create new economic opportunities.

AI applications are being deployed across sectors including healthcare, education, finance, transportation and government administration, enabling more efficient decision-making and service delivery. At the same time, investments in digital skills and innovation ecosystems are helping prepare workforces for an increasingly AI-driven economy.

Developing supportive policies and governance frameworks remains essential to unlocking AI’s long-term economic potential.

Jordan continues advancing its digital economy strategy

Jordan has been expanding investments in digital infrastructure, entrepreneurship and technology innovation as part of its broader vision to build a competitive digital economy.

The country continues to promote initiatives that strengthen startup ecosystems, digital government services, cybersecurity and emerging technologies while encouraging collaboration between government, academia and the private sector. International partnerships provide additional opportunities to access expertise and support the implementation of national digital transformation priorities.

Cooperation with regional organizations also strengthens Jordan’s role in shaping the future of digital development across the Arab region.

Responsible AI governance is gaining importance

As AI adoption accelerates, governments are placing greater emphasis on developing policies that encourage innovation while ensuring transparency, accountability and ethical use.

Effective governance frameworks help build public trust, protect privacy and establish clear guidelines for deploying AI in critical sectors. Collaboration with international organizations enables countries to develop balanced regulatory approaches that promote innovation while addressing emerging risks.

These governance efforts are expected to become increasingly important as AI technologies become more deeply integrated into economies and public services.

Why this matters

The discussions between Jordan and ESCWA highlight the growing importance of regional cooperation in advancing artificial intelligence and digital transformation. By strengthening collaboration on AI policy, innovation and capacity building, Jordan is reinforcing its ambition to build a resilient, knowledge-based digital economy while contributing to broader regional technology development.

Editor’s note

Artificial intelligence is becoming a key area of regional cooperation as governments seek to balance rapid technological innovation with effective governance. Organizations such as ESCWA are increasingly supporting countries through policy development, knowledge sharing and capacity-building initiatives that enable responsible AI adoption. Jordan’s engagement reflects a wider regional trend toward collaborative digital transformation, recognizing that partnerships will be essential to building sustainable AI ecosystems and fostering long-term economic growth.