The Government announces that Madrid will host the first Ibero-American Digital Forum this year to boost technological cooperation

The Minister for Digital Transformation and Civil Service, Óscar López, during his speech

The Minister for Digital Transformation and Civil Service, Óscar López, announced this Thursday during his participation in the Digital Summit Latam 2026, held in Madrid, that the capital will host the first Digital Forum within the framework of the thirtieth Ibero-American Summit to boost technological cooperation.

"It is in our nature to offer ourselves as a bridge between regions and civilizations. That is why it is a source of pride to announce here today that Madrid will host the first Digital Forum within the framework of the thirtieth Ibero-American Summit", the minister confirmed.

The event will take place on 3 and 4 November, bringing together governments, businesses, international organisations, universities, and media professionals from the Ibero-American Community of Nations.

"This Forum does not aim to duplicate structures or efforts, but rather to accelerate the agenda of possible consensus and tangible projects. It is an inclusive commitment to cultural exchange and digital sovereignty", the minister explained.

Regarding the forum's themes, Óscar López announced that the two days will address issues such as AI, safe environments for minors, connectivity, data, and opportunities for collaboration.

"Our regions have talent, diversity, and a shared vision of technological progress. We understand that the Global South cannot be left behind in the digital race. Faced with hatred and oligopoly, we need more and more cooperation. More and more spaces for dialogue like the Digital Forum", the minister said.

When asked about the shared digital agenda for the regions involved over the next five years, the minister emphasised technological governance, digital rights, and the fight against the digital divide. In his opinion, regulatory cooperation does not weaken national autonomy; "it strengthens it in the face of global dynamics that no one can manage alone. And few regions are as amenable to understanding each other politically and culturally as ours", he added.

"Not even China or the United States can have 100% digital sovereignty. They will surely depend on external factors. Therefore, there will never be 100% sovereignty. Other regions, such as Europe and Latin America, either get their act together, move quickly, invest, and create infrastructure, or they will clearly be limited in a sector where we will provide the data and energy, and others will profit greatly from our data and energy", the minister concluded.

Non official translation