Doha, February 03 (QNA) - HE Secretary of State for Digital Economy of the Republic of Cabo Verde, Pedro Lopes, affirmed the significant importance of Web Summit Qatar 2026 in bringing together the international technology community to discuss and explore ways to advance the sector and harness technology to make the world a better place.

Speaking at a press conference today, His Excellency said the summit has provided a new opportunity to explore the Middle East market and to connect the State of Qatar with the Republic of Cabo Verde, serving as a new bridge for Doha to access the African continent, and opening avenues for cooperation between the two countries at both the governmental and private-sector levels. In this regard, he commended the extensive preparations for the summit, the high standard of organization, the warm hospitality and reception, the level of participation, and the quality of issues and topics under discussion.

He expressed his country's desire, participating in the summit through representatives of its startups and technology companies, to strengthen cooperation with Qatar and build partnerships between relevant entities in both countries, stressing that Cabo Verde is open to such collaboration.

His Excellency outlined Cabo Verde's efforts and initiatives to build a modern digital and innovative ecosystem, its cooperation with the private sector to invest in this field, and the opportunities it provides for young people. He also highlighted the country's strong links with its communities abroad and its emphasis on ideas, entrepreneurship, and innovation, which contribute to strengthening the relationship between the state and citizens. Among these initiatives is the Africa generation lab for good governance and innovation, a government technology lab that enables startups and researchers to develop technology-based solutions for governments.

He explained that his country is making significant investments in infrastructure and enjoys strong internet penetration, with around 98 subscriptions per 100 citizens. He also noted the establishment of a fully new technology park, with investments exceeding $70 million, serving both the country and the wider region, and attracting talent from around the world, particularly from West Africa, in addition to other related programs and grants.

During the press conference, several representatives of Cabo Verde's private sector companies also spoke, presenting their achievements and plans, their efforts and investments in digital and innovation ecosystems, the opportunities they offer to creators, and the availability of suitable infrastructure that enhances cooperation between humans and artificial intelligence. (QNA)