Today, the Digital Cooperation Organization received six new observers, namely, the “BITEC” association, Deloitte, the Islamic Development Bank, Mobily, “One Web” and Visa, who will join the organization’s current group of observers, which includes 16 observers.

Organization for Digital Cooperation observers represent all sectors of the digital economy, including international companies, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations and the private sector, and cooperate closely with the organization and through its programs and initiatives to raise levels of international cooperation across the digital system and achieve digital prosperity for all.

The new ODC observers will bring their technical expertise, knowledge and capabilities to support the organisation's goals of bridging the digital divide and enabling countries to build strong, inclusive and sustainable digital economies.

The Bahrain Association of Technology Companies (BTEK) is a non-profit entity that was established in 2012 with the aim of establishing a foothold in the information and communication technology sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain and raising the information and communication technology industry to the level of global competition.

Deloitte is a global advisory firm focused on digital innovation that supports companies of all shapes and sizes that thrive in a digital world, by transforming their operations and improving their use of technology.

The Islamic Development Bank is a multilateral development finance institution that uses digital innovation to promote economic development and social progress in member countries. The bank focuses on Islamic finance and sustainable development.

Mobily, one of the largest telecom companies in the Middle East, focuses on providing innovative services and digital solutions across various sectors.

OneWeb is a global communications network powered by a group of 648 satellites in low-Earth orbit that provides high-speed, low-latency connectivity to governments, companies and communities everywhere around the world.

Visa, a leading global payment technology company, is leading the adoption of new payment technologies and digital payment methods.

For his part, Mr. Hassan Nasser, Vice President of the Digital Cooperation Organization for Membership and International Affairs, welcomed the announcement, saying: “The cooperation with the six new observers is the latest achievement for the Digital Cooperation Organization, as we continue to forge strategic partnerships that play an important role in harnessing the power of the digital economy. Each of these companies brings outstanding experience and significant knowledge to the Digital Cooperation Organization, which will support us in our mission to enable digital prosperity for all and drive progress towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”

The Organization for Digital Cooperation, whose programs accelerate the inclusive growth of the digital economy, has expanded its representation base to nearly 600 million people and $2 trillion of GDP. The organization is dedicated to supporting women, youth and entrepreneurs to harness the power of the digital economy across its 13 member countries.

In order to reach a bright future, the organization aspires to continue its rapid expansion across the digital economy system, and to benefit from partnerships with leading private sector companies, academic institutions, think tanks, civil society organizations, international organizations and other partners across the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa.

Okaz (Jeddah)