Qatar is emerging as a central hub for advanced technology, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
During a panel discussion titled “Building a Digital Economy: Is Your Country Future-Ready?”, experts introduced the 2023 Future Readiness Economic Index.
This special report, commissioned by Google and produced by Descartes Institute in collaboration with the Communications Regulatory Authority, evaluates future readiness and digital transformation across 124 countries.
The FREI Index provides vital metrics for assessing digital transformation readiness, focusing on policies and regulations. The 2023 edition highlights global digital readiness, with Singapore, Denmark, and Switzerland leading among smaller, developed economies.
In his opening remarks, Minister of Communications and Information Technology H.E. Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai emphasized, “This initiative reflects our commitment to cultivating a dynamic digital economy. We aim to use platforms like the Doha Forum to engage with thought leaders. Our recent partnership with the Web Summit to host its conference in Qatar from 2024 to 2029 further supports our ecosystem, driving advancement and using digital technology as a catalyst for economic diversification and a knowledge-based economy.”
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He highlighted that Qatar’s digital policies demonstrate a strategic focus on digital governance, aligning with the upcoming 2030 digital agenda, which is pivotal for the nation’s economic diversification.
Minister Al Mannai added, “Central to Qatar’s digital agenda is a comprehensive suite of ICT policies and regulations designed to enhance our business environment and foster investment and innovation.”
Following the Minister’s remarks, key findings and rankings from the report were presented. Delegates from various fields discussed the need to blend traditional growth strategies with innovative digital initiatives. They emphasized how these efforts drive countries to shape their digital futures, the relationship between future readiness and digital opportunities, and the essential role of multilateralism in advancing digital technology.
The panel featured notable figures including H.E. Dr Hussein Ali Mwinyi, President of Zanzibar and Chairperson of the Revolutionary Council; H.E. Ahmad Al Muslemani, President of the Communications Regulatory Authority, Qatar; H.E. Arnoldo André Tinoco, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Worship, Costa Rica; Dr. Bruno Lanvin, Founder and CEO of Descartes Institute; Selim J. Eddé, Director of Government Affairs & Public Policy at Google Cloud Emerging Markets; and Keyzom Ngodup Massally, Head of Digital Programming at UNDP Chief Digital Office.
Engagement
