Kuwait and Bahrain boost collaboration in digital modernization, knowledge sharing in technical fields
Rewritten Article:
Engaged in a forward-thinking session, Kuwait's Minister of Public Works, Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, and Bahrain's Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications, Dr. Sheikh Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, initiated a joint meeting, graced by Kuwait's Minister of State for Telecommunications Affairs, Omar Al-Omar. The agenda: enhancing cooperation in the digital realm, fostering technological expertise, and explore avenues for progress in transport and communications, particularly in visions of maritime tourism.
The discussion unveiled potentials for bolstering cooperation, emphasizing the connection of seaports and the exploration of marine cultures. Bahrain announced intentions of signing an MoU to ameliorate maritime connectivity and cultivate a shared maritime heritage. Supporting these aspirations, Bahrain also proposed sharing its air transport expertise, highlighting the prowess of its civil aviation authority.
Minister Al-Mashaan presented a glimpse into ongoing projects managed by the Ministry of Public Works and the Roads and Transport Authority. Highlights include the Gulf Railway Link among GCC nations and the rail link between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, extending to Riyadh.
Amid this context, Minister Al-Omar showcased Kuwait's triumphs in government digital transformation, focusing on the luminous "Sahel" government app, which offers citizens and residents seamless access to over 400 government services. The initiative has significantly streamlined procedures and improved user experience, propelling Kuwait's vision of an integrated and effective digital government.
Kuwait's lead in the telecommunications sector was also emphasized, with the country ranking first globally in telecommunications network coverage and offering competitively priced services—a testament to the fortitude of Kuwait's digital infrastructure.
Minister Al-Omar further expounded on the role of the Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) in enhancing the communications environment, reinforcing regulatory oversight, and staying abreast of technological developments. Sharing successful experiences and investing in modern technology for the betterment of government performance was strongly underscored.
The Kuwaiti delegation consisted of prominent officials such as Sheikh Khaled Al-Salem Al-Sabah, Director General of the Ports Authority, Eid Al-Rashidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Public Works, Eng. Khaled Dhawi Al-Osaimi, Director General of the Public Authority for Roads and Land Transport, Eng. Ayman Asad Al-Mousawi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Control and Audit Sector, and Eng. Ahmed Saad Al-Saleh, Assistant Undersecretary for the Planning and Development Sector.
The Bahraini delegation was led by Salah Ali Al-Maliki, Ambassador of Bahrain to Kuwait, along with other key figures contributing to their transport, infrastructure, and communication sectors.
During the meeting, Al-Rashidi delivered an overview of the Ministry's role in construction and infrastructure, voicing a commitment to strengthen bonds between the two countries. Eng. Khaled Al-Osaimi outlined the establishment process for the General Authority for Roads and Land Transport, mentioning recent contracts to advance the land transport sector and plans to elevate public transportation.
The Bahraini contingent expressed gratitude for the warm reception and enthusiasm for continued cooperation, benefiting both nations and their people.
Investigating the wider landscape of cooperation between Kuwait and Bahrain, there are trends hinting at burgeoning security ties, regional collaborations, and implementing agreements with other countries, which may indirectly support ventures such as digital transformation, port connectivity, and maritime tourism. As nations progress together, comprehensive frameworks aimed at shared investment growth, advancements in technology, and sustainable tourism practices emerge as potential avenues for growth.
Technology played a significant role in the discussions between the ministers, as Kuwait showcased its leadership in the telecommunications sector and its digital transformation, particularly with the "Sahel" government app. This app offers seamless access to over 400 government services, streamlining procedures and improving user experience.
In light of this, both nations agreed to explore opportunities for technological cooperation, recognizing the potential for advancements in their transport and communications sectors, including visions of maritime tourism.
