Jeddah:The 44th meeting of the Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics of the Arab League took place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with participation from representatives of Arab statistical agencies as well as regional and international organizations involved in statistical work.
According to Oman News Agency, the meeting focused on several key agenda items, including the follow-up on the implementation of recommendations from the 43rd meeting and a review of activities by the Statistics and Data Management Division of the Arab League. It also covered statistical activities of Arab agencies, cooperation among them for 2026, and reports and recommendations from subcommittees.
The gathering featured presentations of statistical experiences and initiatives by Arab countries. Oman shared its implementation of the Household Income and Expenditure Survey using artificial intelligence and the mechanism for the Digital Economy Survey. Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Statistics presented an AI-based classification platform, while Morocco reviewed migration statistics.
The discussions also encompassed the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals indicators, environmental indicators related to these goals, and advancements in censuses and technology use in statistical work. Additionally, the work of the team developing a unified strategic model for Arab statistical development was reviewed, alongside the 2027 work program and coordination with specialized Arab organizations.
Dr. Khalifa Abdullah Al Barwani, CEO of Oman's National Centre for Statistics and Information, highlighted the importance of Oman's participation, which underscores its commitment to enhancing Arab statistical cooperation and the exchange of expertise. He emphasized how developments in data technologies and AI offer opportunities for improving statistical methods and decision-making.
Al Barwani also noted the significance of the Arab League's efforts in fostering coordination among statistical agencies, which supports the development of national statistical capabilities. The recommendations and initiatives from the Committee's meetings are crucial to adapting to rapid changes in statistical work at regional and international levels.
The agenda further included discussions on a proposal for a unified Arab measure of human security and a regional project aiding Arab countries in transitioning to the System of National Accounts 2025. The meeting is set to conclude with the discussion of the report and recommendations.
The Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics, as part of the Arab League, plays a vital role in enhancing statistical coordination among Arab nations and addressing technical and methodological issues for developing the Arab statistical system.
