Ahead of the 2nd Global Digital Forum, Iraq’s Minister of Communications, Mustafa Jabbar Sanad, discussed the key areas of information technology development in the country and the challenges Iraq faces in implementing them.
Question: What are the main trends in information technology development in your country? Which areas of digital adoption are currently a priority?
Mustafa Sanad: Iraq is focused on digital transformation, the development of telecommunications infrastructure, the rollout of e-government and artificial intelligence, and the strengthening of cybersecurity, with the aim, among others, of improving the quality of services for our citizens.
Question: In which sectors of the economy do you see the most pressing need for digital technology, and where are these technologies being introduced first?
Mustafa Sanad: We see public services, banking, healthcare, education, transport, and energy as key areas for digital technology. At the same time, we are prioritizing digital adoption in public services.
Question: How actively are AI technologies being used in your country, and in which sectors do you believe they could be most effective?
Mustafa Sanad: Iraq is gradually expanding its use of AI. We are confident it can deliver real benefits in public administration, healthcare, education, and cybersecurity, as well as in data analysis and the development of smart services.
Question: What are the main challenges your country faces in digital transformation and building digital infrastructure?
Mustafa Sanad: We see several key challenges: developing core infrastructure, expanding internet coverage and quality, training highly skilled local personnel, strengthening cybersecurity, and securing the necessary investment.
Question: A single country’s digital sovereignty versus openness and global solutions – which paradigm do you think will ultimately prevail worldwide?
Mustafa Sanad: Iraq believes the best approach is a balanced one: protecting national sovereignty, data, and infrastructure on the one hand, while remaining open to integrating global technologies, solutions, and practices on the other.
Question: What are your expectations for the upcoming forum? Are there plans to sign any agreements with the Russian side during the Global Digital Forum?
Mustafa Sanad: We aim to strengthen Russian-Iraqi cooperation in telecommunications, digital adoption, and the use of AI, as well as to exchange expertise and foster collaboration between companies. We are interested in concluding agreements that serve our mutual interests.
