Bahrain hosts global talks for digital future

TDT | Manama                                                     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Zainab Zaman

In a bustling conference room overlooking the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, the future of digital cooperation was forged. The 3rd General Assembly of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) brought together ministers from 17 nations, united by a common goal: to unlock the boundless potential of the digital economy for all.

Under the leadership of His Excellency Mohammed bin Thamer Al Kaabi, Bahrain’s Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications and DCO Chair, the Assembly buzzed with energy. Delegations from across the globe, from the sun-drenched sands of Qatar to the vibrant shores of Rwanda, shared their experiences and visions for a more inclusive digital landscape.

The theme echoed throughout the day—bridging the digital divide. From facilitating cross-border data flows to empowering SMEs and fostering female entrepreneurship, the DCO’s 2030 Strategic Roadmap offered a blueprint for a future where digital prosperity knows no borders.

Building Bridges, Not Walls

Data, the lifeblood of the digital age, was a central focus. The DCO’s Data Free Flow with Trust initiative aims to establish a secure framework for data sharing, ensuring both economic growth and citizen privacy. This “data diplomacy,” as Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya aptly termed it, promises to break down digital walls, fostering collaboration and innovation.

“We reaffirmed the importance of harnessing the value of data to ensure inclusive and digital growth,” declared AlYahya. The room buzzed with agreement as she unveiled the “Online Content Integrity Initiative,” tackling misinformation while respecting cultural nuances.

Empowering the Next Generation

But the DCO’s reach extends far beyond data servers and algorithms. The “We Elevate” initiative, championed by Rwanda, empowers women to transform traditional businesses into online powerhouses, bridging the gender digital divide and creating new avenues for economic growth.

And for young minds brimming with ideas, the DCO’s focus on human capital development and ICT mobility paves the way for a future where talent knows no geographical boundaries.

Beyond the Horizon

The Assembly wasn’t just about looking back at past achievements; it was about charting a course for the future. New initiatives, like the Data Embassy network and the Online Content Integrity Initiative, aim to address the challenges of the digital age head-on, ensuring a secure and inclusive online environment for all.

The DCO is no longer just a budding organization; it’s a powerful engine driving global digital cooperation.