(Ecofin Agency) - Currently, most countries are accelerating their digital transformation. To ensure the efficiency of their various actions, some are exploring cooperation with regional and international partners. 

Saudi Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the South African Ministry of Communications and Digital Technology signed a memorandum of understanding on Saturday, October 15, to strengthen ICT cooperation. The information was reported by the public news agency The Saudi Press Agency.

Under the agreement, the two countries pledge to collaborate in several areas, including education, health, e-government, artificial intelligence, smart cities, fixed and wireless broadband, IP networks and data centers, the Internet of Things, cloud computing, Internet applications, and wireless services, including satellite communications.

The two countries will also carry out joint studies and research to develop digital economic policies and facilitate joint investment projects in digital infrastructure.

The memorandum comes in a particular context marked by the acceleration of digital transformation around the world. It was signed during a working visit by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to Saudi Arabia from October 15 to 16. A total of 17 memoranda covering several sectors were signed during the visit.

Once implemented, this agreement should notably accelerate the development of the two countries' ICT sectors and promote the development of their digital economies. 

Isaac K. Kassouwi