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Somalia and Saudi Arabia have signed a new agreement to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI) and space technology, marking an important step for both countries as they seek to build their presence in the global digital landscape. The deal was signed in Riyadh during the Global Symposium for Regulators (GSR-25) by Mustafa Yasin Sheikh, the Director General of Somalia’s National Communications Authority (NCA), and Haitham Al-Ohaly, the Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). The agreement is designed to help the two nations develop a framework for regulating AI and space technology, areas that are becoming increasingly vital to modern economies and societies.
Under the partnership, Somalia and Saudi Arabia will work closely to exchange knowledge, build technical expertise, and design policies that encourage innovation while ensuring responsible use of new technologies. The focus will be on creating regulatory systems that guide the development of AI and space projects in ways that benefit people while addressing potential risks. Officials also noted that the two sides will explore opportunities for infrastructure sharing and digital cooperation in other areas, which could help speed up technological development in both countries.
The collaboration comes at a time when global interest in AI and space technology is rapidly growing. Many countries are investing heavily in these sectors, seeing them as key drivers of future economic growth, security, and social development. For Somalia, this partnership represents a chance to accelerate its digital transformation journey by learning from Saudi Arabia, which has already made significant progress in adopting and regulating emerging technologies. For Saudi Arabia, the agreement reflects its growing role as a leader in regional and global digital initiatives, as well as its willingness to work with developing nations to ensure that the benefits of technology are shared more widely.
The signing took place during GSR-25, an international gathering co-hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and Saudi Arabia’s CST. The event brought together representatives from more than 190 countries at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh. The symposium focused on addressing global digital challenges, including how to expand internet access to the 2.6 billion people worldwide who remain unconnected. By holding discussions on regulatory cooperation, infrastructure development, and innovative digital solutions, the forum provided a platform for governments to share ideas and form partnerships that can help close the global digital divide.
For Somalia, participation in such a high-level event highlights its determination to strengthen its role in the international digital community despite ongoing challenges at home. The agreement with Saudi Arabia also signals the country’s readiness to embrace emerging technologies, not just as tools for economic growth, but as opportunities to improve governance, communication, and services for its people. For Saudi Arabia, the partnership further demonstrates its commitment to building strong ties with African nations and supporting global cooperation in technology.
This collaboration reflects a shared vision between the two nations: to encourage innovation while ensuring that technological progress is managed responsibly. By working together, Somalia and Saudi Arabia are taking steps toward shaping how AI and space technology will be used and regulated in the years to come. As these sectors continue to expand globally, their partnership could serve as a model for other countries seeking to balance growth with oversight in the fast-changing digital era.