Bahrain’s eGovernment Authority, chief executive officer Mohammad Ali Al Qaed, participated in a high-level meeting held recently in China, in response to an invitation by the United Nations Organisation.

Participants of the meeting gathered in Hong Kong to discuss issues relating to information and communication technology (ICT) and sustainable urbanisation in South Asian countries, said a statement.

It was jointly organised by South-South News, United Nations Human Settlements Programme (Habitat) along with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

Attendance included senior officials from organisations and agencies of the United Nations, accompanied by a number of ambassadors from South Asia.

Keynote speakers included Ambassador Francis Lorenzo, Honorary President of South-South News, ITU secretary-general Dr Hamadoun Touré, Nicolas Pron, Unicef's executive board secretary, Cheick Sidi Diarra, together with the under secretary general of the UN Office’s high representative for the least developed countries, and John Tintori, chair of Kanbar Institute of Film and Television at the New York University.

The meeting was held in the presence of ambassadors of the South Asian countries and representatives of Unicef, Habitat and UNDP - in order to share the outcome of the meeting and discover how ICT innovations can help achieve sustainable urban developments.

Participants discussed the eGovernment plans relating to the usage of technology to achieve sustainable urbanisation and support urban life-cycle.

Bahrain was the only country to contribute in setting eGovernment plans, the statement said.

“Information and communication technology is one of the tools that help nations reach their required goals, develop existing infrastructure and meet the necessities in various fields,” said Al Qaed. He additionally stressed on the importance of setting clear plans and mechanisms in accordance with the country’s needs and requirements - based on a realistic timeframe, definite budget and making use of available resources – with leadership guidance and government support for ICT initiatives.

During his speech, the CEO also shared Bahrain’s experience in the eGovernment field, covering the stages of the Authority’s development since its establishment up to where it stands today – highlighting key milestones, initiatives and challenges faced through its journey and providing outlines of the new National eGovernment Strategy for the years 2012 to 2016. – TradeArabia News Service