Arab states strengthen statistical cooperation in Muscat

MUSCAT: The 43rd meeting of the Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics of the League of Arab States convened in Muscat on Monday, bringing together heads and directors of Arab statistical agencies alongside representatives from regional and international organisations.
The gathering addressed a range of technical issues focused on improving statistical systems and collaboration among Arab states. Key discussions centred on evaluating statistical performance, enhancing data quality and advancing joint initiatives with international partners. Delegates also shared successful national experiences in digital transformation and the integration of artificial intelligence in data analysis.
The meeting aimed to promote greater technical and methodological coordination among Arab countries, fostering the exchange of expertise and strengthening statistical capacities to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across the region.
Dr Khalifa bin Abdullah al Barwani, CEO of the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), emphasised that Oman’s hosting of the meeting underscores its commitment to advancing Arab statistical cooperation. He highlighted the crucial role of accurate and reliable data in shaping sustainable policies and informed decision-making.
Dr Al Barwani further commended the League of Arab States’ efforts to harmonise statistical practices and encourage knowledge exchange among member states, noting that such cooperation forms a cornerstone for building national capabilities and promoting Arab integration. He expressed confidence that the Muscat meeting would yield constructive recommendations to strengthen joint Arab statistical work and keep pace with global advances in data and analytics.
The Permanent Technical Committee for Statistics, a specialised body under the League of Arab States, comprises the heads and directors of national statistical agencies from member countries. It reports to the Council of Arab Ministers Responsible for Statistical Affairs and plays a vital role in aligning statistical methodologies, unifying efforts and enhancing the region’s collective data ecosystem. — ONA