Gap between developed, developing nations on AI/crypto too wide, says Tuggar at UNGA

Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, has called for a bridging of the digital divide between developed and developing economies.

The minister made the demand on Wednesday during his address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

He also asked for support from the international community to enable Africa finance implementation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs).

He said the global north must do more to support sustainable development in the global south, adding that it is imperative to adopt measures to tackle challenges impeding development.

Tuggar said the global community must take action-oriented measures to “reform the international financial architecture” in a bid “to promote an inclusive non-discriminatory and transparent international trading system as well as to implement comprehensive debt relief measures”.

He also sought for “strengthening of measures to ensure timely repatriation of illicit financial flows and assets”.

“Adoption of a UN framework convention on international tax cooperation to ensure African economies are no longer shortchanged through tax evasion and exclusion in global tax decision making,” he said.

“Support for the actualisation and implementation of the UN secretary general’s SDGs stimulation proposal which includes a provision of $500 billion per year for the global south.

“Commitment to fossil fuel energy transition.

“Access to the climate loss and damage funds for the global south.

“Bridging the digital divide between the global north and south through technology sharing and capacity building, including in areas such as artificial intelligence, to ensure no one is left behind.

“It is also imperative that the international community develops measures to enhance a common understanding on cryptocurrency given its significant impact on the global economy as well as its links to transnational crimes and money laundering.

“This is especially important in Africa, where economies are most vulnerable due to historical imbalances in the international multilateral system.”

SUPPORT FOR AFRICA TO MEET SDGs

Tuggar asked the international community to lend Africa a helping hand on the SDGs.

“The SDG Index estimates that only about 16 percent of the SDG targets are on track to be achieved. We must, therefore, ensure that today’s adoption of the Pact for the Future is backed by a real willingness to fulfil outstanding commitments,” he said.

“With the remaining 84 percent of the SDG targets for 2030 yet to be achieved, countries in the global north must do more to support sustainable development in the global south.

“We are optimistic that these targets can be met if commitments are backed by action. However, in the event we fall short of achieving the SDG targets by 2030, we strongly believe that the deadline should be extended.

“The collective resolve and support of the international community could help Africa tackle regional challenges, particularly with regard to sustainable financing for SDG implementation.”

He also urged support for indigenous production and exports from Africa.