Rapid advances in artificial intelligence, data and digital platforms place a responsibility on parliaments to develop legislative frameworks that keep pace with these developments, Shura Council member Sadiq Eid Al Rahma has said.
Speaking at a remote joint GCC parliamentary seminar, Mr Al Rahman highlighted the importance of the frameworks that will stimulate innovation and investment, protect privacy and rights, and support confidence in the digital environment.
Bahrain’s Parliamentary Division, in co-operation with the GCC General Secretariat, held the seminar on the digital economy, focusing on legislation, technical infrastructure, enhancing its contribution to GDP, stimulating investment, and strengthening the security of Gulf society through digital platforms.
The seminar was attended by representatives of the Shura Councils and National Assemblies of the GCC countries.
Mr Al Rahman, who is also Parliamentary Co-ordination and Foreign Relations Committee chairman, delivered the opening address, conveying the greetings and best wishes of the Parliament Speaker and Shura Council Chairman for the seminar’s success.
The legislative councils of the GCC countries presented working papers on digital economic integration among the GCC countries, promoting research and innovation, co-operation in technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, and developing and harmonising policies and legislation in these areas.
The Bahrain Parliamentary Division presented a working paper covering the dimensions of national legislation in the kingdom, notably the Information Technology Crimes Law, Personal Data Protection Law and Electronic Transactions Law, as well as the National Digital Economy Strategy and National Cybersecurity Strategy.
The paper also highlighted initiatives to utilise artificial intelligence and cloud computing, in addition to the two councils’ receipt of international awards and high rankings for digital maturity.
Members of the Shura Council’s Financial and Economic Affairs Committee also added their views on GCC co-operation frameworks to address cybersecurity challenges that surpass national borders.
The seminar aims to contribute to unifying Gulf visions and approaches, and promoting joint legislative and oversight efforts towards building a secure digital environment.
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