GCA President: Independent and Objective Audit Key to National Development Priorities

St. Petersburg, General Court of Audit (GCA) President Dr. Hussam Al-Angari today participated in the "External Audit as a Means to Achieve National Development Priorities" panel session at the 27th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, held in Russia. Al-Angari emphasized the critical role of Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in driving national development. SAIs achieve this by strengthening good governance and accountability within the government sector. They accomplish this through independent and objective audits of all public resource utilization. These audits adhere to a set of internationally recognized professional principles established by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). He further highlighted the significance of SAIs' performance audits. These audits enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of public services delivered to citizens. This is achieved by pinpointing areas for improvement and development and scrutinizing government initiatives related to sustainable development. This scrutiny ensures that initiatives are implemented effectively and align with national goals. Al-Angari underscored the growing international recognition of SAIs' critical role. He also highlighted two United Nations resolutions that promote efficiency, effectiveness, accountability, and transparency in government administration through support for SAIs. Al-Angari concluded by emphasizing the need for SAIs to embrace modern auditing tools and techniques, such as data analytics and artificial intelligence. This, alongside developing innovative methodologies and enhanced cooperation with international and regional counterparts, will foster the exchange of best practices in auditing standards and methodologies. Ultimately, these advancements will empower SAIs to contribute more significantly to achieving national development priorities. Source: Saudi Press Agency