DCO, LAS Sign MoU to Accelerate Digital Transformation, Economic Development

The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), a global multilateral organization committed to enabling digital prosperity for all by accelerating the inclusive growth of the digital economy, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the League of Arab States (LAS) to collaborate on developing an inclusive and sustainable digital economy.
The MoU was signed by LAS Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit and DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya in New York on September 23, during the 79th United Nations General Assembly.
Through this MoU, the DCO and LAS will work together to enhance relations, exchange experiences and information, and accelerate the growth of digital transformation and economic development. Specific areas of cooperation include digital market development; alignment in policies and legislation concerning the digital economy; and innovation, research, and development.
Additionally, the DCO and LAS will collaborate on policies related to the digital economy, support innovation, and promote ethical artificial intelligence (AI) in research and development. They will engage in joint research and studies aimed at fostering growth in the digital economy and exchange knowledge to bridge the digital divide by improving digital infrastructure, governance, skills, and awareness.
AlYahya stated, "Our mission is to elevate cooperation, mutual understanding, and coordination among our member states while fostering collaboration with non-member countries and entities. We aim to ensure that every nation, business, and individual has a fair opportunity to prosper in an inclusive, cross-border, and sustainable digital economy. As the oldest regional intergovernmental organization, the League of Arab States plays a pivotal role in unifying the region’s vision for the digital future. This MoU marks a significant step in advancing sustainable social and economic development across DCO member states. We look forward to working closely together to empower entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises, helping them to grow and thrive.”
Aboul Gheit remarked, "It is fundamental that the Arab region keeps pace with the rapid technological changes shaping the future of the global economy. This includes investing in digital infrastructure, enhancing technology education and innovation, and ensuring widespread access to digital tools and services. With the DCO, we will develop digital policies in the digital economy and support innovation and the responsible use of AI.
Signing the MoU underscores our shared commitment to leveraging technology as a crucial tool in combating poverty, enhancing security, and fostering sustainable development across LAS member states.”
This MoU follows a meeting in Cairo between the DCO and LAS in May 2024, where both entities committed to enhancing their cooperation.