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Geneva — July 2025 — In a strategic move to enhance its global influence in artificial intelligence and digital transformation, Saudi Arabia is forging stronger international partnerships. Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha led a series of high-level meetings in Switzerland aimed at advancing collaboration on AI, innovation, and the digital economy.
During his official visit, Alswaha reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to addressing global challenges in computing, data, and algorithms through initiatives that support inclusive and sustainable digital development.
Strengthening Longstanding Ties with the ITU
Alswaha’s visit included a key meeting with Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The discussions focused on the 76-year partnership between Saudi Arabia and the ITU, highlighting the Kingdom’s pivotal role in driving progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Saudi Arabia is committed to enabling global telecommunications infrastructure and fostering innovation that serves humanity,” Alswaha stated. He emphasized the Kingdom’s contributions to international efforts aimed at accelerating digital transformation and bridging the digital divide.
Bilateral Cooperation on Digital Governance and Infrastructure
In addition to multilateral discussions, Alswaha held bilateral meetings with government counterparts from Algeria and Somalia. With Algerian Minister of Post and Telecommunications Sid Ali Zerrouki, Alswaha explored new opportunities for collaboration in AI, digital governance, and infrastructure development.
He also met with Mohamed Adam Moalim Ali, Somalia’s Minister of Communications and Technology, to discuss initiatives for building digital infrastructure and advancing e-government programs. Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to empowering national talent and aligning efforts with their respective development visions.
Intellectual Property and Innovation at the Forefront
The future of innovation and intellectual property protection was a central theme in Alswaha’s meeting with World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Director-General Daren Tang. Discussions centered around promoting sustainable innovation, advancing technology transfer, and developing policy frameworks that support emerging technologies.
These conversations reflect Saudi Arabia’s increasing focus on creating an environment that nurtures innovation, safeguards creators, and facilitates the responsible deployment of cutting-edge technologies.
Championing Digital Development with UNCTAD
At the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Geneva, Alswaha sat down with Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan to chart a path toward inclusive digital growth. The two leaders discussed strategies to support economic development through technology-driven solutions and foster an innovation-led digital economy.
This meeting further solidified Saudi Arabia’s global positioning as a key driver of technological advancement and sustainable development.
A Global Call to Action on AI and Computing Gaps
In a keynote address at the ITU’s 160th anniversary celebration—attended by global leaders, policymakers, and experts—Alswaha stressed the urgency of global cooperation in the age of AI.
“Humanity is at a pivotal moment,” Alswaha said. “The gaps in computing, data, and algorithms must be addressed with a shared sense of responsibility.”
He announced that Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has launched several forward-looking initiatives designed to close these gaps and ensure that AI technologies serve the broader interests of society.
Vision for a More Equitable Digital Future
Alswaha concluded his visit by reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision for a digitally inclusive world. He emphasized that collaboration among nations is vital to prevent deepening divides between societies in the wake of rapid technological change.
“The future will be shaped by the choices we make today,” he said. “By working together, we can harness modern technologies to build a more equitable, sustainable, and connected world.”
Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic and technological engagements this week signal not only a commitment to innovation but also a desire to lead globally in crafting a responsible and inclusive digital future.
