Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty on Sunday, June 28, 2026, inaugurated the first roundtable of the UN initiative on artificial intelligence and human development, hosted by Egypt in cooperation with the UN at the headquarters of Al-Azhar University.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the opening session was attended by Deputy Secretary-General of the UN and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group Amina J. Mohammed, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) Rania al Mashat, former UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Ghada Waly, President of Al Azhar University Salama Dawood, and UN Resident Coordinator in Egypt Elena Panova.
In his opening remarks, Abdelatty expressed pride in Egypt's hosting of the international event, describing it as a platform for dialogue on harnessing artificial intelligence to advance human development and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He highlighted that holding the roundtable at Al-Azhar University carries symbolic significance, reflecting its historic role in knowledge, thought, and dialogue.
The Foreign Minister stated that Egypt has taken significant steps toward establishing an integrated national framework for AI governance. These include the establishment of the National Council for Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing and Emerging Technologies, the adoption of the National AI Governance Framework in 2026, and the launch of the Egyptian Responsible AI Charter. These initiatives aim to balance fostering innovation with safeguarding individual rights and strengthening public trust in technology.
Abdelatty emphasized that human development is the cornerstone of Egypt's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy for 2025-2030. The strategy aims to leverage AI applications to improve government services, promote scientific research and innovation, support startups, empower youth, and build national capacities. It also focuses on preserving the Arabic language and cultural heritage while ensuring fair and inclusive access to technology.
He underscored that Egypt's vision aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and is centered on placing people at the heart of digital transformation. The AI should contribute to advancing social justice and comprehensive development, with technology serving humanity and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity.
The Foreign Minister expressed hope that the roundtable discussions would enrich international efforts to strengthen AI governance, support the implementation of the Pact for the Future, and contribute to the work of the UN Independent International Scientific Panel. This, in turn, would reinforce global cooperation in this field and ensure that modern technologies advance human development and build a sustainable and inclusive future.