The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia participated in the United Nations global AI governance dialogue in Geneva to discuss international technological cooperation. Minister of Communications and Information Technology Abdullah Alswaha led the Saudi delegation at the event. This participation occurred on the sidelines of the AI for Good Global Summit 2026.
The Saudi delegation included several high-ranking officials who supported the bilateral discussions. Specifically, Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) President Dr. Abdullah Alghamdi and Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) Governor Eng. Haytham Alohali attended the meetings. Additionally, the Permanent Representative of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations in Geneva, Ambassador Abdulmohsen Khothaila, was present.
Saudi Arabia Joins AI Governance Dialogue
During the event, Alswaha held multiple bilateral meetings with ministers from participating nations. These discussions focused on expanding the digital economy and building technical capacity. Consequently, the representatives explored new avenues for knowledge exchange and joint development.
Bilateral Meetings with International Ministers
The Saudi minister met individually with Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed Al Mannai. Furthermore, he held talks with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Khawaja. These meetings aimed to strengthen regional ties in the technology sector.
Alswaha also met with Costa Rica’s Minister of Science, Innovation, Technology, and Telecommunications Paula Bogantes Zamora. In addition, he held discussions with Barbados’ Minister of Innovation, Industry Science and Technology Jonathan Reid. These sessions highlighted the global reach of the Saudi digital initiatives.
Key Areas of Digital Collaboration
The bilateral talks focused heavily on the development of artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure. Moreover, the participants addressed ways to expand opportunities for digital inclusion across their respective nations. As a result, they agreed to support the creation of high-impact partnerships.
The delegations also discussed the importance of cybersecurity in protecting shared digital assets. Meanwhile, they emphasized the need for trusted digital frameworks to support sustainable development. These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s ongoing digital transformation goals.
Future Outlook for Global Technology Partnerships
The meetings in Geneva reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to advancing international cooperation in technology. By participating in the AI governance dialogue, Saudi Arabia aims to help build a more inclusive digital future. Therefore, the country continues to establish connections with global partners to support these objectives.
Looking ahead, the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology plans to follow up on these bilateral discussions. Specifically, the entities will work to implement the shared goals established during the summit. This collaborative approach will guide future technological initiatives between the nations.
Source: Saudi Press Agency
