H.E. Eng. Mohamed Ben Amor, Director General of the Arab Information and Communication Technologies Organization (AICTO), participated in the Second Global Digital Forum, organized by the Centre for Economic Cooperation and Investment Development (CECID) in the Russian Federation from 8 to 10 October 2026. The forum brought together prominent leaders, experts and decision-makers in the fields of information and communication technologies (ICT) and digital transformation.
As part of his participation in this international event, H.E. the Director General contributed as a speaker to a panel discussion entitled “Open-Source AI Models: Balancing Opportunities and Vulnerabilities.” The discussion explored the transformative potential of open-source AI models in driving technological innovation and strengthening digital sovereignty, while addressing key challenges related to security, governance and building trust in rapidly evolving technological ecosystems.
His participation provided an opportunity to exchange perspectives and expertise on emerging trends in artificial intelligence and explore ways to maximize the benefits of open-source technologies while ensuring digital security and the responsible use of technology. These considerations are essential to fostering more resilient and sustainable digital ecosystems.
On the sidelines of the forum, on 9 October 2026, H.E. Eng. Mohamed Ben Amor paid an official visit to the International Centre for Scientific and Technical Information (ICSTI) in Moscow, where he took part in a high-level working meeting alongside Dr. Feras Bakour, Chairman of the Board of the Arab Internet and Communications Union (ARISPA).
Representing ICSTI, the meeting was attended by its Director, D.Sc. Yury Lonchakov; Deputy Director Mr. Valery Parfenov; Plenipotentiary Representative Dr. Osama Ammar; and Cousellor to Director Ass. Professor Dr. Olga Belova.
The meeting focused on identifying shared strategic objectives and exploring avenues for cooperation among AICTO, ICSTI and ARISPA, particularly in the fields of science and technology, as well as the exchange of information, knowledge and expertise. These discussions sought to identify opportunities for broader multilateral cooperation and the development of partnerships around areas of mutual interest.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to present AICTO’s strategic orientations, programmes and initiatives aimed at advancing digital transformation across the Arab region, strengthening technological integration and expanding cooperation with international institutions. Discussions further explored potential frameworks for future collaboration to promote innovation, scientific research and the exchange of scientific and technical information.
H.E. Eng. Mohamed Ben Amor emphasized that AICTO’s participation reflects the Organization’s commitment to expanding its international relations and strengthening cooperation in technology, artificial intelligence and scientific research. He underscored the importance of knowledge and expertise sharing and the development of effective partnerships that support the digital development priorities of Arab countries while enabling them to keep pace with global technological advancements.
The meeting concluded with a shared emphasis on the importance of maintaining coordination and consultation among the participating organizations and working towards practical frameworks for cooperation in areas of mutual interest. These efforts are intended to pave the way for future initiatives and projects that strengthen scientific and technological cooperation and advance digital transformation.
Through this participation, AICTO reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its presence at international forums, engaging with global experiences and expertise, and expanding opportunities for cooperation and partnership in support of Arab digital development objectives and the advancement of a more innovative, secure and sustainable digital future.