UATE and APRI ARMENIA sign MoU to collaborate on WCIT 2024/digitec organization, policy research initiatives

The Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises of Armenia (UATE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Applied Policy Research Institute of Armenia Foundation (APRI Armenia) for partnership in policy research and dialogue and the organization of the 2024 World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT2024/DigiTec). This agreement marks the beginning of a collaborative effort between the two organizations to advance technology and policy research initiatives in Armenia. 

The MoU was signed by Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises (UATE) CEO Sargis Karapetyan and Applied Policy Research Institute of Armenia Foundation (APRI Armenia) Director Lara Setrakian. 

Parties noted that due to the MoU the efforts will be united for the benefit of the WCIT2024//DigiTec organizational activities and involvement of prestigious guests, as well as to serve as an advanced support in using the expertise and joint potential in policy research and dialogue for the field. 

"We are grateful for the cooperation with APRI Armenia and UATE. This MoU marks a significant step towards a successful WCIT2024/DigiTec. Together, we will harness our collective expertise to create a remarkable event that advances technology and policy research in Armenia,"-said Hayk Karapetyan, Executive Director of the Organizing Committee of WCIT2024//DigiTec.

The WCIT2024/DigiTec will be held in Yerevan, Armenia, at the Karen Demirtchian Complex, from October 4-7, 2024. Under the headline “THE POWER OF MIND: AI Beyond Limits, Within Ethics,” the Congress will serve as a global platform to amplify the impact of information technologies, emphasizing the importance of applied sciences, investments, and presence across diverse regions and economies. 

"We are excited to join forces with UATE and WCIT2024/DigiTec. This collaboration underscores our commitment to a common goal and our readiness to work together to advance technology and policy research in Armenia. It is a great pleasure to contribute to the success of WCIT2024/DigiTec,"- said Lara Setrakian, President of APRI Armenia.

The Congress  4-day agenda features a high-level program, B2B meetings, the WITSA World Cup (WWC) for scaleups, innovation showcases, business presentations, workshops, and more. It will offer a comprehensive agenda catering to diverse stakeholders and is expected to attract thousands of local and international delegates. Through interactive sessions and exclusive panel discussions, attendees will gain access to the latest global ICT innovations, best practices, and cutting-edge solutions.

"For 20 years, UATE has been advocating for the policies of the tech ecosystem in Armenia. Now, it is time for collective action: This partnership with APRI Armenia and our efforts for WCIT2024/DigiTec will bring together our strengths and resources to drive significant advancements in technology and policy research in our country,”- said Sargis Karapetyan, CEO of the Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises (UATE), DigiTec.

Participants will have the platform to network and showcase their investment projects and ideas, paving the way for mutually beneficial partnerships with international entities and driving sustained technological leadership and innovation. All attendees will have the opportunity to establish prospective cooperation with both Armenian and international partners.

About WCIT

The World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT) is a global catalytic platform of the World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA) - a consortium of over 80 information technology (IT) industry associations from economies around the world. For 40 years, technology leaders—CEOs and investors, policymakers and government officials, academics and technologists—have joined in this annual event to discuss the state of the industry, where it is headed, and what it means for our future. Past speakers include Bill Clinton, Vint Cerf, Bill Gates, Ginni Rometty, Larry Ellison, Anne Mulcahey, Faqir Chand Kohli, and Michael Dell.                                                              .

About UATE

The Union of Advanced Technology Enterprises (UATE) represents over 160+ high-tech companies in Armenia, including both local and international firms. UATE is dedicated to driving industry growth through key initiatives: establishing comprehensive technology education across Armenia (Armath Engineering Makerspaces), facilitating global market access, and exchanging expertise through organized delegations. Additionally, UATE significantly influences the legal field through policy-making and government cooperation, fostering a competitive yet collaborative business environment. 

UATE is renowned for organizing major events that highlight Armenian technological advancements. Notably, it hosted WCIT in 2019 and is set to host it again in 2024, while also annually organizing the DigiTec Expo for nearly 20 consecutive years showcasing innovations to both local and global audiences. Through these efforts, UATE continues to elevate Armenia’s presence in the global tech landscape.

About APRI Armenia

The Applied Policy Research Institute of Armenia Foundation (APRI Armenia) is an independent think tank and policy accelerator focused on advancing regional stability, sustainable prosperity, and civic engagement. Our programs and initiatives are oriented toward concrete problem-solving through public policy innovation. Through our strategic research and convening activities, APRI Armenia facilitates breakthrough ideas and multistakeholder initiatives for positive change in our region.