Saudi communications minister engages with tech giants to boost innovation and AI

Saudi communications minister engages with tech giants to boost innovation and AI

Saudi Gazette reportDAVOS — Saudi Arabia's Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Abdullah Al-Swaha engaged in pivotal discussions with leaders of major global technology firms in Davos, focusing on the expansion of technological and innovative projects in the Kingdom.These meetings, part of the Kingdom's delegation at the World Economic Forum, aim to solidify Saudi Arabia's status as a regional hub for technology and innovation.In a significant meeting with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Eng. Al-Swaha reviewed the outcomes of Nadella's recent visit to Riyadh.They explored enhancing investment in areas like generative artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, entrepreneurship promotion, and programs for developing national talent.Eng. Al-Swaha's separate dialogue with IBM CEO Arvind Krishna revolved around joint projects and advances in generative AI, big data, and digital capability development.They also delved into stimulating research and innovation in deep technologies.The minister's meeting with Amazon CEO Adam Selipsky focused on a partnership to bolster the digital economy's growth in the region.Discussions included expediting innovative business models and applications of generative AI.Simultaneously, Vice Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Haitham Al-Ohali met with Alibaba Group CEO J. Michael Evans.They discussed national talent development and fostering investments through enhanced partnerships in cloud computing and e-commerce