Barcelona, Spain | 2–4 March 2026 — The Arab Information and Communication Technologies Organization (AICTO) participated in the Ministerial Programme 2026, held from 2 to 4 March 2026 as an integral part of MWC Barcelona. The programme brings together government leaders, decision-makers, technology experts, and representatives of global companies to discuss the future of the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity contributing to the development of an open, secure, inclusive, and shared cyberspace for all.
During the event, H.E. Eng. Mohamed Ben Amor took part as a speaker in key strategic discussions, including:
- WIC Specialized Committee on AI (World Internet Conference 2026): “Embodied AI: Leading a New Paradigm for AI Development”
- GSMA MENA & Türkiye Focused Roundtable
- United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and GSMA Roundtable: “How AI Governance Can Catalyze the Mobile Industry – Shaping AI Governance as a driver of digital and innovation inclusion in the Arab World”
These contributions underscore AICTO’s commitment to advancing regional dialogue on responsible AI, governance frameworks, and inclusive innovation, while strengthening cooperation between the Arab region and global digital ecosystem stakeholders.
In parallel with these high-level interventions, the AICTO delegation held several meetings on the sidelines of the event to strengthen cooperation, explore partnership opportunities, and advance joint initiatives with institutions across the digital ecosystem.
Among these key meetings, H.E. Eng. Mohamed Ben Amor, Director General of AICTO, held high-level discussions with the Chairman of GACI of Libya, H.E. the Minister of ICT of Syria, H.E. Director General and CEO of Smart Africa, and HE Director General of ETSI.
In his meeting with Mr. Jan Mr. Ellsberger, Director General of ETSI, the two sides explored opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation, particularly in the assessment and governance of conformity for digital trust services and electronic identity across the Arab region. This collaboration builds on the cooperation agreement signed by both parties, which is expected to be updated this year to include additional technical areas, such as artificial intelligence and satellite communications.
For reference, ETSI is an independent, non-profit organization headquartered in France and is widely recognized as a global leader in developing ICT standards. It brings together more than 900 members from 65 countries and develops internationally applicable technical standards for networks, broadcasting, and digital technologies—helping ensure interoperability, security, and high performance.