ISLAMABAD: Pakistan took over the presidency of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) at its fifth General Assembly held in Kuwait on Thursday. Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja assumed the role.
At a ceremony attended by senior officials from 16 member countries, she highlighted that under Pakistan’s leadership, the DCO would focus on promoting joint global efforts in digital cooperation, cybersecurity, digital inclusion, and artificial intelligence. The DCO is an international forum dedicated to strengthening cooperation among member states in digital economy, digital infrastructure, and data governance.
Khawaja stated that Pakistan aimed to ensure the benefits of the digital revolution reached all members, including young people, women, and other countries. She emphasized this role as a reflection of Pakistan’s growing influence in global digital discourse, which would create new opportunities for international collaboration in advanced technologies.
Founded in November 2020, the DCO is the world’s first standalone international organization focused exclusively on the digital economy. Its mission is to achieve social prosperity and growth by unifying member states’ efforts towards advancing digital transformation and promoting shared interests.
The organization seeks to provide equitable opportunities for countries, businesses, and individuals in a cross-border, sustainable digital economy, with a particular emphasis on empowering youth, women, and entrepreneurs through innovation.