In a joint effort to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can support inclusive and sustainable development, the United Arab Emirates and the Royal Government of Bhutan, in collaboration with the Eurasia Group and G42, hosted a two-day workshop titled “AI for Development” in Thimphu, Bhutan.

The event was attended by Bhutanese Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay and Foreign Minister Lyonpo D.N. Dhungyel, and began with the traditional Marchang Ceremony, highlighting Bhutan’s rich cultural heritage.

The workshop focused on identifying AI-based solutions tailored to Bhutan’s specific needs. The initiative reflects the UAE’s broader foreign policy approach, which prioritizes technology-driven diplomacy and collaborative partnerships, particularly within the Global South.

The workshop focused on three main areas: supporting entrepreneurship, advancing regenerative tourism, and boosting agricultural productivity. These priorities align closely with Bhutan’s national development strategy and the broader Sustainable Development Goals.

Leading the UAE delegation, Omran Sharaf, Assistant Minister for Advanced Science and Technology, stated, “This initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to technological diplomacy through harnessing AI and technology for global development. Through such partnerships, we aim to advance impactful solutions that align with national priorities and contribute to sustainable development.”

UAE Non-resident Ambassador to Bhutan, Dr. Abdulnasser Alshaali, highlighted the partnership’s broader goals, noting, “The UAE is proud to partner with Bhutan in navigating pioneering, scalable tech solutions, from entrepreneurship to agriculture, advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inclusive growth across the Global South.”

Bhutan was selected as the pilot country for the initiative in recognition of its commitment to innovation and its openness to practical, cost-effective technologies that foster economic growth. Jigme Tenzing, Secretary of Bhutan’s GovTech Agency, emphasized the transformative potential of AI, stating,  “While AI offers remarkable conveniences, its true potential lies in driving transformative solutions that deliver meaningful and inclusive impact,” he notes

“The ‘AI for Development’ workshop offers a timely opportunity to explore how AI can accelerate Bhutan’s socio-economic transformation in ways that align with our national values and priorities.”

During the visit, the UAE delegation was granted an audience with His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, who commended the UAE’s advancements in technology and space, and acknowledged the potential for future collaboration emerging from the workshop.

The event further reinforced the UAE’s role as a strategic partner to the Global South, supporting collaborative efforts in emerging technologies and capacity building.

The UAE delegation included Omran Sharaf; Dr. Abdulnasser Alshaali; Muath Alwari, Director of Policy Planning; and representatives from the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs and G42.