Manama: Bahrain's Parliamentary Division, in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), hosted a remote joint Gulf parliamentary seminar focusing on the digital economy. The seminar addressed legislation, technical infrastructure, GDP contribution, investment stimulation, and enhancing Gulf society's security through digital platforms.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the seminar saw participation from representatives of the Shura, Representatives, National, and National Assembly councils of the GCC countries. Sadiq Eid Al Rahma, a member of the Shura Council and Chairman of the Parliamentary Coordination and Foreign Relations Committee, delivered the opening address. He conveyed greetings from the Speaker of the Council of Representatives and the Chairman of the Shura Council, wishing success for the seminar.
Al Rahma underscored the significance of the seminar's theme, highlighting its direct link to the present and future of Gulf economies amidst ongoing challenges. He pointed out the need for parliaments to develop legislative frameworks that align with advances in artificial intelligence, data, and digital platforms. These frameworks are essential for stimulating innovation and investment, protecting privacy and rights, and fostering trust in the digital environment.
Bahrain's proposed paper aimed to share the Kingdom's experience, viewing the digital economy as a development driver that demands a secure and trusted environment. The paper emphasized the importance of a legislative framework and leading national initiatives.
The seminar included members from the Financial and Economic Affairs Committees of the Shura Council and Council of Representatives, alongside officials from the councils' secretariats-general. Legislative councils of the GCC countries presented papers on digital economic integration, promoting research and innovation, technology cooperation, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and policy development.
Bahrain's Parliamentary Division presented a working paper on national legislation, highlighting the Information Technology Crimes Law, Personal Data Protection Law, Electronic Transactions Law, National Digital Economy Strategy, and National Cybersecurity Strategy. The paper also showcased initiatives in artificial intelligence and cloud computing, and international accolades for digital maturity.
Members of the Shura Council's Financial and Economic Affairs Committee shared insights on GCC cooperation frameworks to address cross-border cybersecurity challenges. Bahrain's hosting and organization of the seminar aligns with the decisions of the Speakers of the GCC legislative councils and the timelines for enhancing Gulf parliamentary cooperation.
The seminar aims to unify Gulf visions, strengthen ties between GCC countries, and promote joint legislative and oversight efforts to build a secure digital environment that aligns with regional objectives and the aspirations of its peoples.