Bahrain and Algeria are advancing discussions on an Arab framework agreement to establish unified regulations for AI and digital technology. The talks, held during the 2024 UN Internet Governance Forum, focus on creating common standards to ensure ethical AI practices and foster collaboration across the Arab region in the evolving tech landscape.
Morocco and Saudi Arabia have signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen their partnership in digital transition. The agreement, unveiled during the 19th UN Internet Governance Forum, aims to expand e-government services, foster technological innovation, and enhance bilateral cooperation, with a focus on sustainable digital infrastructure.
Pakistan has declared 2025 as the “Year of 5G” and unveiled plans to increase broadband speeds to 50-100 Mbps and expand Fibre-To-The-Site (FTTS) coverage to 60%. The government aims to enhance telecom infrastructure with a 5G spectrum auction in 2025 and a nationwide fiber network expansion.
Pakistan’s Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, introduced the ‘Digital Nation Pakistan’ initiative, aiming to create a unified digital framework focusing on economy, governance, and society. The initiative will lead to the establishment of a National Digital Commission and a Digital Authority, promoting national digitization.
Mohammed Ali Al Qaed, CEO of Bahrain’s iGA, participated in the 3rd Digital Government Forum and the 19th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh. He addressed issues like misinformation, Bahrain’s response during the pandemic, and the importance of AI and global cooperation in tackling digital threats, fostering trust in technology.
Bahrain has launched the “Global Digital Twinning for eGovernment Excellence” initiative to share its digital governance expertise with partner countries. The programme highlights Bahrain’s leadership in digital transformation, with innovations such as integrated government services and advanced digital platforms. This initiative aims to enhance global digital collaboration and governance.
Bahrain’s National Days and the 25th anniversary of King Hamad’s Accession to the Throne were celebrated with a focus on unity and national progress. Dr. Shaikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to advancing infrastructure and supporting Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030.
The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) has played a crucial role over the past decade in managing Qatar’s radio spectrum and telecommunications. The CRA’s initiatives in sectors like security, oil and gas, and digital infrastructure have been instrumental in maintaining efficient communications, supporting major events, and boosting Qatar’s global ICT standing.
Bahrain has launched the “Global Digital Twinning for eGovernment Excellence” initiative, part of its collaboration with the United Nations. The program aims to share Bahrain’s digital governance expertise to help partner countries improve their digital services. The iGA highlighted Bahrain’s digital transformation and successful implementation of advanced technologies.
Nepal has lifted its nine-month TikTok ban, following a request from the platform’s South Asia division. The ban had impacted many content creators in the country. TikTok’s return is expected to revive opportunities for Nepali users who had shifted to other platforms during the suspension.
