TEHRAN – An Iranian delegation will participate in the 4th International Telecommunications and Information Technology Exhibition and Conference (ITEX), scheduled to take place from September 25 to 28 in Baghdad, Iraq.

Supported by the Vice-Presidency for Science and Knowledge-Based Economy, the knowledge-based firms will showcase their capabilities in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, IRNA reported.

ITEX Iraq is a platform that brings together workers and specialists in the ICT sector. It aims to showcase the potential of the ICT sector, identify models for integration that overcome challenges, and ultimately enhance digital services for citizens and the country. It focuses on telecommunications, information technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital solutions.

Iran, Iraq discuss enhancing technological ties

In July, the ICT minister, Sattar Hashemi, and the Iraqi ambassador to Tehran, Naseer Abdul Mohsen Abdullah, discussed ways to expand technological cooperation between the two countries.

During a meeting held in Tehran, Hashemi elaborated on the strategic plan of the ICT Ministry, which aims to promote technological diplomacy. The official highlighted the need to leverage the capacities of the two countries as a link in the international transit route, utilizing Iran’s infrastructure, Mehr News Agency reported.

Referring to the capabilities of the knowledge-based companies and the growth of the digital economy in the country, Hashemi said the Iranian and Iraqi private sectors can collaborate in the mentioned fields.

Abdullah, for his part, called for fostering collaborations, highlighting that any effort to strengthen the relations will be constructive. The Iraqi official said the two countries can expand cooperation on cybersecurity and the digital economy.

In January, Hashemi and Abdulla explored avenues for boosting cooperation in the ICT sector, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), and e-government.

During a meeting held on January 30 in Tehran, Abdullah referred to the large number of Iranian and Iraqi pilgrims, stressing that these extensive interactions require enhanced cooperation. He subsequently

Voiced Iraq’s interest in the promotion of relations with Iran in fields such as AI, cyber security, and communication infrastructure, IRIB reported.

Highlighting the strengthened collaborations between the two countries, the official said, “Trade between Iraq and Iran should reach 20 billion dollars yearly, part of which should be allocated to information and communication technology.”

For his turn, Hashemi highlighted former cooperation in cyber security and e-government, saying that “transferring expertise to Iraq is one of the main axes of cooperation between the two nations. Iran is also planning to utilize artificial intelligence capacities, and would welcome cooperation in this area, as well.”

The official went on to propose joint investment in international transit, maritime fibers, and the development of a big data center in Iran as other possible axes of collaboration.

Hashemi also said the provision of a high-speed communication network for the Arbaeen pilgrimage should be put on the agenda.

MT/MG