UNDP Resident Representative’s speech to the Egypt International Conference for Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity

May 19, 2024

 

Minister Amr Talaat, Minister of Communications and Information Technology 

Ministers, Ambassadors, 

Distinguished guests, 

  • It is a great pleasure to address you today at “Egypt International Summit for Digital Transformation and Cybersecurity",
  • This conference serves as a crucial platform for advancing digital transformation, a vision we share wholeheartedly with the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
  • Digital transformation is at the core of UNDP’s strategies as one of three key enablers in UNDP’s 2022- 2025 strategic plan. 
  • UNDP developed a stand-alone digital strategy 2022- 2025, which aims to build inclusive, ethical, and sustainable digital societies utilizing digital as an empowering force for people and the planet.
  • over the last 2 years, UNDP supported over 60 countries on their holistic, national-level digital transformation, and supported policymakers understanding their AI readiness and develop national AI strategies.
  • UNDP is steering global leadership on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as we served as official knowledge partner during the G20 Indian presidency in 2023, leading on advocacy on DPI. and we are supporting more than 20 countries in the implementation of DPI.
  • UNDP is also recognized for its leadership in digital and we were invited by the Government of Italy as its knowledge partner during its G7 Presidency in 2024, and together we are co-designing an AI Hub for Sustainable Development with countries in Africa.
  • We are proud on our longstanding partnership between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology over the past 20 years as a testament to the power of collaboration and collective action.
  • UNDP has been steadfast in supporting the Ministry in its mission to transform Egypt into an inclusive digital society.
  • Our Digital Transformation portfolio with MCIT is the largest not only in the Egypt Country Office but also across the Arab Region.
  • Together, we are driving ICT innovation, developing human capital, supporting the development of an inclusive society, and advancing the AI national agenda. 
  • Through our collaboration with MCIT, we aim to equip beneficiaries with the necessary skills to navigate emerging technologies and promote digital literacy for future jobs.
  • By leveraging UNDP platforms and channels for wider outreach, we can ensure that these opportunities reach all segments of society, leaving no one behind.
  • By fostering innovation and inclusivity, we can unlock the full potential of digital transformation for a more equitable and prosperous future for all Egyptians.
  • In conclusion, let us embrace the spirit of partnership and collaboration to drive digital transformation and cyber security.
  • Let us leverage this conference to spark impactful discussions on harnessing data for sustainable development, forge new partnerships and collaborations to bridge the digital divide, and further empower communities.
  • Thank you.