QATAR OFFERS 9 BILLION QATARI RIYAL INCENTIVES FOR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION

From Nor Baizura Basri

DOHA, May 14 (Bernama) -- The Qatari government, which is currently working on the diversification of its economy, is moving towards digital transformation across the country with some nine billion Qatari riyal worth of incentives to be offerred.

Its Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani said that recognising the importance of the transformation of information technology including in artificial intelligence (AI), the government has embarked on various projects, including projects with startups.

This includes the launch of AI projects in the Arab world, where it would collect high quality data, enhance different linguistics and improve the Arabic language, he said during the “In Conversation” session at the Qatar Economic Forum, which kicked off today.

“AI is a big world, whether it is from the infrastructure or application side. Our focus in Qatar is to become more complimenting with other countries in the region.

“We see a lot of potential of AI in the Arab world, especially involving the Arabic language and culture,” he said.

On the diversification of its economy, Sheikh Mohammed said the United States has been the traditional market for Qatar, however, Asia has been an interesting market for the country while at the same time it is exploring emerging markets like Central Asia and the African continent.

He said its sovereign wealth fund would continue its diversification strategy, while making sure its invesments are not high risk but with sustainable income.

Also gracing the opening ceremony of the Qatar Economic Forum is the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has been invited as one of the leaders to talk during the plenary session later today.

Anwar is currently on the last leg of his three-day official visit to the Qatari capital.

-- BERNAMA