Iran Seeks to Strengthen Tech Collaboration with Algeria and Kenya: Unlocking New Opportunities
The recent discussions held by the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Minister, Sattar Hashemi, with his Algerian and Kenyan counterparts mark a significant step towards enhancing digital collaboration across nations. These meetings focused on critical areas such as smart government initiatives, the space industry, the digital economy, and cybersecurity. The discussions took place during the World Telecommunication Development Conference 2025 (WTDC-25), occurring from November 17 to 28 in Baku, Azerbaijan, as reported by ISNA.
In his meeting with the Algerian Minister of Post and Telecommunications, Sid Ali Zerrouki, both officials underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation in various sectors:
- Smart Government
- Digital Economy
- Space Industry
- Cybersecurity
- Regional Connectivity
- Communication Infrastructures
During their discussions, Zerrouki highlighted the 2023 memorandum of understanding signed between Algeria and Iran’s nanotechnology park, which aims to boost collaborative efforts in:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Space and Cybersecurity
- Undersea Cables
Hashemi elaborated on Iran’s vision for digital transformation, emphasizing the government’s goal to increase the digital economy’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) to 10 percent. The development of a smart government ecosystem remains a central focus of this initiative.
Furthermore, Hashemi noted Iran’s advancements in the space industry, suggesting opportunities for collaboration in:
- Satellite Design
- Ground Stations
- Space-Based Services
He also proposed initiatives in Fiber to the Home (FTTH), modern fixed access networks, and advanced communication platforms. Hashemi extended an invitation to Zerrouki, encouraging him to visit Iran to explore the capabilities of Iranian companies and the nation’s smart government projects.
In his subsequent meeting with William Kabogo Gitau, the Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Information, Communications, and the Digital Economy, the conversation shifted towards sharing experiences in policymaking and the development of joint economic projects. Gitau emphasized the necessity of enhancing:
- Cybersecurity
- Data Networks
- Platform Regulations
- Communication Crisis Management
He advocated for a deeper technical interaction between experts from both countries in the realms of the digital economy and data centers. In response, Hashemi expressed Iran’s readiness to collaborate in areas such as:
- Internet Governance
- Network Resilience
- Countering Hybrid Threats
- Cybersecurity
Hashemi noted that the growth of the digital economy in Africa presents a strategic opportunity for Iranian firms and innovative Kenyan centers to engage in collaborative projects. He proposed sharing expertise through joint educational courses and specialized meetings to enhance mutual understanding and development.
As part of Iran’s efforts to expand technological diplomacy, Hashemi leads a delegation participating in the WTDC-25, themed ‘Universal, meaningful, and affordable connectivity for an inclusive and sustainable digital future.’ Throughout the conference, he is set to engage with various counterparts and high-level delegates to share insights and foster technological collaborations across multiple fields, including:
- Fiber Optic Networks
- 5G Technologies
- Artificial Intelligence
On the sidelines of WTDC-25, Hashemi also met with Doreen Bogdan-Martin, the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). Their discussions revolved around enhancing collaborations in:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Communication Infrastructure
- Digital Multilateralism
- Communication Security
During this meeting, Hashemi showcased Iran’s achievements in information technology, AI, and communication. He emphasized the critical role of ITU as a platform for global coordination, asserting that promoting multilateralism and cooperation with specialized institutions are priorities in Iran’s digital foreign policy.
In response, Bogdan-Martin praised Iran’s active involvement in ITU’s meetings, committees, and programs, recognizing the country as a significant player in policymaking and technical discussions. She noted that the regular presence and quality of Iranian experts in these meetings significantly contribute to achieving ITU’s objectives.
Additionally, Bogdan-Martin expressed the Union’s willingness to enhance ties in developing technical skills, empowering human resources, and exchanging knowledge in emerging technologies through collaborative efforts.
Highlighting Iran’s robust capabilities in AI, communication infrastructures, and digital service development, she suggested that Iran could take on a more prominent role in establishing new standards and international programs. She also welcomed Hashemi’s invitation to visit Iran, underscoring that cooperation between Iran and the ITU can serve as a model for sustainable communication development in the region and foster digital inclusion in various countries, thereby enhancing network resilience and promoting a smart economy.
