Pakistan assumes DCO Presidency for 2026
KUWAIT CITY – The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) concluded its fifth General Assembly in Kuwait yesterday, marked by the landmark adoption of the “Kuwait Declaration on Responsible AI for Global Digital Prosperity.” The declaration establishes a unified framework for a digital transformation that is inclusive, secure, and scalable to meet the demands of the rapidly evolving technological era.
Strategic Roadmap for 2026
The two-day summit, held under the presidency of the State of Kuwait, brought together ministers and high-level representatives from member states. During the sessions, the assembly approved the 2026 Annual Plan, which focuses on five strategic pillars: digital economy enablers, digital corridors, digital business and innovation, and digital society.
In a move to drive data-led policy, member states agreed to advance the Digital Economy Maturity (DEN) metric. This tool will be transformed into an integrated economic intelligence platform designed to guide policy reforms, prioritize investments, and facilitate cross-border cooperation.
Addressing Digital Challenges
The General Assembly also addressed the security and integrity of the digital ecosystem. Member states endorsed coordinated measures to strengthen trusted digital infrastructures, including the launch of a global campaign to combat online misinformation. Furthermore, the assembly reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing digital skills, online safety, and sustainability, aligning its goals with the United Nations Global Digital Compact.
Handover of Presidency
The Assembly officially announced the transition of the DCO presidency from the State of Kuwait to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan for the 2026 term. Consequently, the next General Assembly is scheduled to be hosted in Pakistan in 2027.
Accepting the role, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, stated: “Pakistan is honored to lead the DCO at this critical juncture for the global digital economy. We look forward to working closely with member states to develop responsible AI pathways and ensure that digital transformation delivers tangible benefits for all.”
The Kuwait sessions served as a pivotal platform to review the organization’s 2025–2028 agenda, reflecting the DCO’s growing influence in shaping a collaborative and prosperous digital future on the international stage.
