Digital Diplomacy: Tunisia and Sweden Forge Stronger Ties in Tech Collaboration

Stockholm, May 18, 2024 – In a significant step towards fostering international collaboration in the digital sector, Tunisia and Sweden have embarked on a collaborative journey aimed at harnessing the potential of digital technology. Nizar Ben Neji, Tunisia’s Minister of Communication Technologies, led a high-level delegation to Stockholm from May 16 to 17, 2024. Invited by his Swedish counterpart, Erik Slottner, Sweden’s Minister for Public Administration, the visit focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and sharing expertise across several key digital domains.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations Through Digital Diplomacy

The discussions were robust and encompassed various areas crucial to digital transformation. Both nations reiterated their commitment to advancing their digital economies, a move that is particularly salient in an increasingly interconnected world. Key areas of focus during the meetings included:

• Legislative Frameworks for Digital Technologies: The discussions delved into the regulatory environment necessary for fostering innovation while ensuring security and compliance.
• E-Governance and Digital Services: Both sides shared best practices on providing seamless digital services to businesses and citizens, aiming to enhance accessibility and efficiency.
• Digital Identity and Trust Solutions: Exploring strategies to ensure secure digital identities, thereby bolstering trust in digital transactions and interactions.
• Artificial Intelligence Strategies: Tunisia and Sweden discussed the potential applications of AI in various sectors, striving for smarter, data-driven decision-making processes.
• Cybersecurity Strategies: With the increasing threat landscape, collaboration on cybersecurity strategies was a pivotal part of the conversation, ensuring both nations are well-equipped to handle digital threats.
• Cloud Computing and Interconnection Platforms: Cloud infrastructure was highlighted for its role in enabling scalable and flexible digital solutions.
• Digital Infrastructure, Particularly 5G Networks: The conversation focused on the roadmap for developing 5G networks, a cornerstone for both nations' digital future.

Tunisia’s Digital Vision: A Roadmap for Transformation

During the visit, Minister Nizar Ben Neji presented Tunisia’s national digital strategy, outlining the country's ambitions and governance framework for digital transformation. Highlighting the pivotal roadmap for developing 5G networks, Ben Neji emphasized the significance of these networks as foundational to Tunisia's digital evolution. He underscored Tunisia’s dedication to leveraging 5G technology to drive economic growth, innovation, and public service enhancement.

Enhancing Cooperation for Mutual Benefit

The mutual exchange of expertise and strategies between Tunisia and Sweden is not only a testament to the strong bilateral relations but also to the foresight of both countries in recognizing the importance of digital technology in shaping future economies and societies. Both nations expressed their eagerness to continue and expand their collaboration across these critical digital domains.

Key Actors in the Collaboration

Several key actors are instrumental in this collaboration, poised to contribute significantly to the Tunisian economy through their expertise and technology:

• Ericsson: A major player in the global telecommunications industry, Ericsson's involvement is pivotal. The company showcased its latest developments in 5G technology and digital infrastructure during the visit, highlighting the potential for secure, efficient, and scalable network solutions. Ericsson's contributions are expected to drive Tunisia's 5G network development, enhancing digital connectivity and economic growth.
• RAISE Institute (RISE): As a leader in research and innovation, RISE's role in cybersecurity and digital infrastructure was a focal point during the delegation's visit. Their expertise in safeguarding digital networks and infrastructures will be invaluable in Tunisia's digital transformation efforts.
• Swedish Post and Telecom Authority (PTS): PTS's insights into regulatory frameworks and their experience in managing digital technologies provide a blueprint for Tunisia to follow in developing robust legislative environments conducive to innovation and security.

In conclusion, the working visit marked a significant milestone in the digital diplomacy between Tunisia and Sweden. By fostering deepened collaboration, both nations aim to address the aspirations of their citizens and businesses, leveraging technology to create a prosperous and secure digital landscape.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the official visit documentation on the Radio IFM website and the .