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The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology detailed how Alswaha held the meeting at UN headquarters in New York, where Saudi Arabia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Abdulaziz Alwasil was also present. Discussions centered on comprehensive digital transformation and its importance in speeding up progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals. The two sides explored opportunities to enhance collaboration in digital government while supporting capacity building in developing countries through shared knowledge and best practices that could lead to more inclusive systems.
This latest engagement builds upon Saudi Arabia’s consistent efforts to position itself as a leader in digital transformation on the international stage. United Nations data from the E-Government Development Index places the Kingdom fourth globally in the Online Service Index, reflecting significant advancements in delivering digital public services. The ministry has linked these gains directly to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes technological innovation to improve government efficiency and empower citizens.
In May the Digital Government Authority concluded an agreement with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs to set up a dedicated digital government center headquartered in Riyadh. DGA Governor Ahmed bin Mohammed Alsuwaiyan described the center as a milestone that would facilitate knowledge exchange and support member states in adopting artificial intelligence and modern technologies for governance. The move demonstrates the depth of existing ties between Saudi institutions and the UN in promoting sustainable digital strategies worldwide.
Li Junhua highlighted that the discussions extend previous cooperation between the Kingdom and the United Nations over recent years. The UN official emphasized the potential for long-term partnership to help bridge the digital divide affecting many nations. Such initiatives focus on creating frameworks that enable countries to develop comprehensive digital approaches aligned with global sustainable development targets.
A United Nations report indicates that the number of internet users worldwide has grown from approximately 800 million to nearly 6 billion in recent decades, a trend the Kingdom has actively supported through its international engagements. The ministry continues to advocate for inclusive policies that extend digital benefits to all segments of society. Saudi Arabia has recorded substantial growth in female participation in the technology sector, which has risen markedly since the launch of its national transformation programs.
The meeting underscores Saudi Arabia’s proactive approach to international forums where digital policy is shaped. By exchanging experiences with UN counterparts, the Kingdom aims to contribute to global standards that foster innovation while addressing challenges in emerging technologies. Officials from both sides expressed commitment to ongoing dialogue that translates into tangible outcomes for developing economies seeking to modernize their government operations.
