Arab Economic Councils Meet on Digitization in Algiers

A high-level seminar organized by the Union of Arab Economic and Social Councils convened in Algiers, bringing together leaders and representatives from Arab Economic and Social Councils, along with delegations from African nations, experts, and economic operators. The conference centered on accelerating digital transformation as an essential requirement for Arab countries to integrate with the global economy and as a primary driver for sustainable development.

Mohammed Boukhari, President of the Union and the National Economic and Social Council, elaborated that contemporary economic integration standards now extend beyond traditional trade volumes. He emphasized that these standards increasingly rely on removing restrictions on digital flows, connecting payment systems, and facilitating secure data exchange. Boukhari further noted that artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and financial technology have become critical determinants of a country's competitive advantage and international standing. He called for a transition from merely formulating strategies, such as the “Arab Digital Economy Vision,” to practical implementation, aiming to convert network connectivity into tangible economic value that can reshape productivity and job opportunities across the region.

Adding to this perspective, Fayez Ali Al-Mutairi, Director-General of the Arab Labor Organization, stressed that the ongoing technological revolution and the advancements in artificial intelligence are fundamentally redrawing the economic landscape and labor markets. This transformation, he explained, necessitates that governments and social partners adapt to the shifts in required skills and the nature of available job roles. The discussions underscored a unified commitment to leveraging digital advancements for enhanced regional cooperation and economic growth.