Launch of the ‘UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’ to Foster Sustainability and Inclusivity at the United Nations Headquarters in New York

Launch of the ‘UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’ to Foster Sustainability and Inclusivity at the United Nations Headquarters in New York 

New York, September 21st, 2023 – At the initiative of five Members States of the Digital Cooperation Organization – Bahrain, Cyprus, Pakistan, Rwanda and Saudi Arabia, a bold step is being taken to enable global digital cooperation with the launch of the ‘UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’ at the United Nations headquarters in New York. This initiative aims to drive advocacy for the inclusive and sustainable growth of the digital economy, enabling prosperity and social inclusion for all globally. 

Over the past two decades, digital technologies have transformed societies, connecting billions of people, businesses, and governments. While the digital economy accounts for 15 percent of global GDP, a significant portion of the global population still lacks access to the internet. In today’s world, digital enablers are essential for achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. However, the digital divide persists, hindering economic growth and sustainable development. Recognizing the urgent need for global digital cooperation, the Digital Cooperation Organization is supporting this initiative and the Member States to launch the ‘Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’. 

As a platform for driving tangible progress, the ‘UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’ is poised to initiate a series of impactful activities. These encompass advocating at the UN level for the prioritization and adoption of global policies and strategies that foster inclusive digital cooperation, thereby promoting sustainable growth in the digital economy. Additionally, the Group will serve as a facilitator, establishing a cooperative platform that enables knowledge exchange among Member States and facilitates the sharing of best practices in the digital economy. 

The ‘UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’ will support the collective efforts to bolster the digital economy and advance the United Nations SDGs. Moreover, the Group will endeavor to enhance the coordination of relevant initiatives, projects, and activities, that spur the development of the digital economy on a global scale. 

“The UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation is a platform to enhance digital cooperation in order to achieve the SDGs. In its role as an information provider, advocator, advisor and facilitator, the Digital Cooperation Organization will serve as a catalyst for this Group aiming to bridge the digital divide and put the SDGs back on track through global multistakeholder digital cooperation,” said Deemah AlYahya, the Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization. 

“Cyprus is pleased to join the Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation, a pioneering initiative that aligns with our commitment to fostering digital sustainability and inclusivity. Global cooperation is vital in our evolving digital landscape. Together, we aim to contribute to a brighter digital future for all,” commented Ms. Thessalia Shambou, Minister Plenipotentiary, Political Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus. 

Participation in the Group is open to UN Member States and relevant partners. As a UN General Assembly Observer, the Digital Cooperation Organization secretariat will play a central role in bringing Member States together to harness the power of cooperation to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs. 

The launch of the ‘UN Group of Friends for Digital Cooperation’ underscores the dedication of the Digital Cooperation Organization and its Member States to creating a more inclusive and sustainable digital economy. As digital technologies continue to shape our world, this initiative signals a vital step towards enhancing digital cooperation. 

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