First GCC e-Government Conference & Exhibition opens 

(MENAFN - Khaleej Times) Top ICT policymakers in the GCC and international IT experts gathered here on Monday to share their experiences in e-Government applications and services and discuss 
future challenges.

The 1st GCC e-Government Conference and Exhibition'inaugurated by senior royal family member Sayyid Asaad bin Tareq Al Said, is expected to agree the minimal e-Government services that should be provided by the GCC countries, with priority given to health, education and social security.

The delegates will also look at the possibility of establishing a link between e-Government portals of the six member states and draw up a set of uniform criteria and standards for ICT projects related to e-Government.

"Science and technology systems are the most important issues of concern to the world in this age," Mohammed bin Nasser Al Khusaibi, Chairman of Oman's Information Technology Authority, or ITA, observed in a speech, adding: "Addressing this issue is critical for sustainable development, as it has a significant impact in the service of development objectives and the achievement of human well-being."

Describing the conference as a "demonstration of Gulf cooperation and integration in all areas," he said it was indicative of a "deep and enlightened understanding of the requirements of a knowledge-based 
economy."

Khusaibi underlined the importance given by the Gulf Coperation Council leaders to build a knowledge society and e-Government and their interest in employing digital technology.