New york: The State of Qatar has emphasized the critical role of enhancing international cooperation in science, technology, and innovation to bridge the digital divide between the Global North and South. This initiative aims to foster technology transfer partnerships, advance infrastructure, build capacities, and share expertise to achieve sustainable development.
According to Qatar News Agency, this statement was delivered by Abdul Hadi Saeed Al Khayarin, a member of Qatar's delegation at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Al Khayarin addressed the Second Committee of the UNGA on the topic "Harnessing Science, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Development," under agenda item 15 at the UN headquarters in New York.
Al Khayarin reiterated Qatar's stance that science, technology, and innovation are essential tools to enhance opportunities and address development challenges. These tools aid in diversifying the economy, boosting economic growth, improving productivity, enhancing efficiency, conserving resources, protecting the environment, and accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
He pointed out that Qatar's national plan, "Qatar National Vision 2030," prioritizes digital transformation and innovation. Key fields identified include energy, health, sustainability, and digital technology.
Qatar has partnered with numerous global companies to advance infrastructure, facilitate technology transfer, and build national capacities, leading to significant progress in the Global Innovation Index (GII), Al Khayarin noted.
In 2024, Qatar launched its Digital Agenda 2030, aiming to enhance digital infrastructure, optimize government performance efficiency, establish a strong foundation in data and emerging technologies, develop the digital sector, support innovation through research and investment, and promote digitalization to spur economic growth and talent development.
For the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, Qatar hosted the Web Summit in February 2024 and will host the next edition in February 2026. This event is designed to enhance communication opportunities for startups, identify new technologies and their business impact, and leverage cutting-edge digital applications for economic and community benefits, Al Khayarin stated.
He also mentioned that Qatar is preparing to host the ITU Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP-26) in Doha, which is a top-tier authority in decision-making within ITU, influencing its future vision and global impact on the communications sector.