Delivered By: Ms. Nouf Alhameli
Mr. Chair,
At the outset, I would like to thank the briefers for their valuable briefings.
Mr. Chair,
The role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has become indispensable in shaping the future of sustainable development. From fostering innovation and building resilient infrastructure to bridging the digital divide, ICT represents a powerful catalyst for change and growth across all sectors of society.
In the wake of the Future Summit, the United Arab Emirates looks forward to working with Member States to advance the goals of the Future Charter, including the Global Digital Compact, and take concrete actions to respond to tomorrow’s challenges.
However, as digital technologies evolve, so should our global strategies to ensure that ICT, and the responsible use of AI, contribute meaningfully to sustainable development. The world is more interconnected than ever, and this interconnection must be harnessed to create equitable and sustainable progress for all. In this context, the UAE firmly believes that ICT is a critical enabler for sustainable development.
We are committed to integrating technology into every facet of our development agenda, not only to foster economic growth but also to promote environmental sustainability, inclusive digital access and equitable use of AI, thereby
ensuring that our efforts align with the global objectives outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Mr. Chair,
The UAE’s commitment to using ICT infrastructure for sustainable development is evident across a range of sectors. For example, through space technology, we are leveraging satellite data and advanced analytics for crucial applications such as environmental monitoring, climate research, disaster management, urban planning, and sustainable agriculture. By harnessing ICT, the UAE is enhancing its capabilities in space while driving global efforts to address pressing sustainability challenges.
Another example is illustrated through the UAE’s Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2031 which aims to harness AI and big data across critical sectors such as energy, transportation, and water management. By optimizing resource use and enhancing the efficiency of renewable energy systems, we are making strides in ensuring sustainable cities and communities.
Mr. Chair,
Looking toward the future, the UAE has recently laid out a comprehensive 6G roadmap that seeks to revolutionize digital infrastructure while prioritizing sustainability. The roadmap highlights the UAE’s committment connecting under-served regions, integrating AI in ways that drive resource efficiency and ensuring the development of ubiquitous intelligence. With 6G sustainability expected to decreased power reduction by up to 50% compared to 5G, the roadmap aligns with the global push for sustainable innovation while reflecting our commitment to bridging the digital divide.
Mr. Chair,
Inclusion and accessibility are at the heart of the UAE’s ICT initiatives. Initiatives like the National Digital Participation Plan aims to enhance digital inclusivity. This plan focuses on increasing the digital literacy of citizens, promoting the use of online services, and ensuring that all groups, including women and youth, are empowered to participate in the digital economy, which underscores the UAE’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering an inclusive digital environment.
This reflects our ongoing efforts to ensure that all members of society can benefit from the digital transformation and no one is left behind.
The UAE recognizes that leveraging the potential of ICT for sustainable development hinges on robust capacity building which is catalysed by effectively harnessing the potential of science and technology. Research institutes, in collaboration with industry and government, play a crucial role in this endeavour by driving initiatives that enhance skills, foster innovation, and create a supportive policy environment for ICT development. My country exemplifies this approach through the collaboration of academic research institutes with other sectors in developing the 6G Roadmap. By investing in both human capital and technological advancement, the UAE reinforces its commitment to creating a knowledge-based economy and empower communities to leverage ICT solutions that drive sustainable progress.
Mr. Chair,
My country emphasizes the importance of fostering international cooperation and sharing best practices for ICT development as it aligns with our commitment to building an interdependent world where sustainable development is achieved collectively. It does so by engaging in global platforms such as the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and collaborating with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to share best practices and tackle issues on cybersecurity, data governance, and the responsible use of emerging technologies.
For example, the UAE’s Cybersecurity Council’s collaboration with the ITU focuses on enhancing capacity building for countries to improve their cybersecurity posture by developing national cybersecurity expertise, sharing best practices, and achieving resilience.
Mr. Chair,
In conclusion, the UAE remains committed to leveraging ICT as a driver for sustainable development and a tool for building inclusive, resilient, and secure societies. Through a strong focus on capacity building in science and technology, we can empower individuals and communities to harness these tools effectively. We firmly believe that through collaboration and shared responsibility, we can harness the full potential of technology to achieve the SDGs and create a sustainable future for all.
Thank you.