Rwanda and Jordan have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand cooperation in information and communication technology, covering areas including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital identity and digital payments.
The agreement was signed in New York on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly by Minister of ICT and Innovation, Paula Ingabire, and Jordan’s Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, Eng. Sami Smirat.
The MoU provides a framework for the two countries to exchange technical expertise and cooperate on digital transformation, emerging technologies, innovation and digital capabilities.
Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital identity, cybersecurity, data protection and telecommunications infrastructure are among the priority areas identified under the agreement.
The two countries will also explore cooperation in digital payment systems and interoperability, alongside Internet of Things technologies, big data, smart cities and e-commerce.
The agreement also covers disaster recovery services for data centres, adding a focus on the protection and continuity of digital infrastructure.
Smirat said international cooperation can help countries accelerate digital transformation, improve government services and strengthen their capacity to adopt emerging technologies.
He also highlighted cooperation between governments, the private sector and academic institutions in developing digital skills, supporting research and development, promoting innovation and implementing joint projects.
To oversee implementation, Rwanda and Jordan will establish a joint technical committee responsible for coordinating activities, following up on projects and assessing progress under the agreement.
The committee is expected to meet every three months or whenever necessary to review cooperation and identify areas for further collaboration.
The ICT agreement was signed as the two ministers attended the UN General Assembly in New York, where the two countries were also engaged in wider discussions on international cooperation.
