In a series of strategic encounters at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Abdullah Al-Swaha, held significant talks with leaders of top global technology corporations. These interactions are a step towards enhancing the Kingdom’s ambition of becoming a regional nexus for technological innovation.
The discussions are part of the Kingdom’s broader initiative to assert its position in the tech sphere. A notable conversation took place between Eng. Al-Swaha and Microsoft’s CEO, Satya Nadella, where they revisited the outcomes of Nadella’s recent trip to Riyadh. Their dialogue included potential enhancements in investment across various sectors, such as generative AI, cloud services, fostering entrepreneurship, and national talent cultivation.
In a separate meeting with IBM’s CEO Arvind Krishna, the conversations were centered on collaboration in generative AI, big data analytics, and the development of digital skills. They also examined ways to boost research and innovation in advanced technologies.
Further cementing partnerships, the minister’s exchange with Amazon’s CEO Adam Selipsky was oriented towards strengthening the region’s digital economy. They discussed accelerating the development of innovative business models and the application of generative AI technologies.
Meanwhile, the Vice Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Eng. Haitham Al-Ohali, met with Alibaba Group CEO J. Michael Evans. Their discussion aimed at advancing national talent and enhancing investments through bolstered partnerships in cloud computing and e-commerce solutions.
Additionally, Eng. Al-Ohali’s conversation with NAX group CEO Jeff Schumacher focused on the potential of digital startups and the promotion of innovation to forge new opportunities within the digital economy.
These engagements underscore Saudi Arabia’s assertive efforts to embed state-of-the-art technology and AI into its economic and development strategy, signaling its commitment to a future steered by technological advancement.