October 18, 2026
Minister of Displaced Persons and Minister of State for Technology and Artificial Intelligence, Kamal Shehadeh, confirmed that digital transformation constitutes a fundamental pillar of an integrated national project that aims to develop the state and economy, keep pace with global changes, in addition to creating new investment opportunities and providing sustainable jobs for Lebanese youth.
This came during his speech at the opening of the International Conference on Intelligent Computing and Next Generation Technologies (ICONET26), which was organized by the Faculty of Engineering at Beirut Arab University in cooperation with the Lebanon Chapter of the International Computer Society (IEEE Computer Society Lebanon Chapter), amid wide participation of researchers, academics and experts in the sectors of technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
Shehadeh stressed Lebanon’s endeavor to be an active part in the global technological revolution, by investing in knowledge, scientific research, and developing human capabilities, as well as stimulating innovation and entrepreneurship.
He explained that the Ministry of State for Technology and Artificial Intelligence actively contributes to establishing the “Digital Republic,” by developing public services, supporting emerging companies, attracting investments, and raising the competitiveness of Lebanese companies regionally and internationally. He pointed out the importance of investing in Lebanese competencies as a lever for the national economy, pointing out that the digital economy provides broad horizons for creating qualitative jobs in the fields of artificial intelligence, data analysis, cybersecurity, and digital services.
The Minister pointed out the need to modernize the digital infrastructure and legislative frameworks, enhance data governance, and protect privacy and cybersecurity, while emphasizing the importance of the responsible and safe use of artificial intelligence technologies.
In the same context, Shehadeh noted the pivotal role of Lebanese universities in building competencies and producing knowledge, calling for closer cooperation between academic institutions, startup companies, the private sector and public administrations, and linking scientific research with market requirements to transform ideas into productive projects.
In conclusion, Shehadeh stressed that digital transformation represents a participatory national project that requires the combined efforts of ministries, public institutions, universities, and the private sector, in addition to investing in the energies of the Lebanese diaspora and building international partnerships, in a way that contributes to strengthening Lebanon’s position on the map of the global digital economy.
