Cairo: Minister of Communications and Information Technology Raafat Hindy engaged in discussions with Taha Khalifa, General Manager for Middle East and Africa at Intel Corporation, focusing on strengthening cooperation in technological infrastructure, digital capacity-building, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the meeting underscored Hindy's commitment to advancing capabilities in artificial intelligence, aiming to develop a workforce capable of supporting the expansion of AI applications across various state sectors. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to create an integrated digital society that utilizes cutting-edge technologies to provide advanced services to citizens.

Hindy emphasized the importance of collaborating with leading international companies to achieve the objectives of the second phase of the national artificial intelligence strategy. He also highlighted the role of modern technologies in promoting economic and social development. Enhancing cybersecurity, developing national talent, and fostering digital innovation were identified as crucial elements for advancing digital transformation.

Intel's Khalifa expressed the company's eagerness to collaborate with the Communications Ministry in digital capacity-building by offering specialized training programs aimed at improving skills in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and advanced infrastructure technologies.

The discussion also covered the ministry's efforts through its Applied Innovation Center in developing generative AI applications that address societal needs. These efforts are supported by the Egyptian large language model 'Karnak,' which is rooted in Arab culture and Egyptian identity. The center is also collaborating with universities to support research and development in emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.

Both parties agreed to draft a memorandum of understanding to establish a framework for collaboration in various areas. Key focuses include implementing training programs for digital capacity building targeting government employees and executive leadership, and supporting the ministry's initiatives, such as the 'Digital Pioneers' initiative.

They also explored the possibility of organizing technical workshops and specialized sessions on the latest global technology trends, particularly in cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. These initiatives aim to leverage Intel's expertise and enhance cooperation with the ministry's affiliated training and applied entities.