Pakistan forms AI advisory panel to drive technology-led economic growth

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistani government has announced the establishment of an expert-based artificial intelligence (AI) advisory panel to guide and oversee AI initiatives, marking a step forward in its efforts to promote technology-driven economic growth.

The decision was made during a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday, focused on advancing AI in the country. The Prime Minister highlighted that promoting information technology and AI is a priority for the government, with the goal of harnessing emerging technologies to drive economic growth and innovation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasised that the digital economy’s effectiveness will be enhanced through AI, with a focus on the responsible and secure use of artificial intelligence as a top priority.

During the meeting, he also stressed the need for data protection and sovereignty while integrating AI into national systems. The Prime Minister directed the formation of a steering committee to facilitate the implementation of AI initiatives, reaffirming the government’s commitment to executing the national AI policy effectively.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecom Shaza Fatima, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Bilal Bin Saqib, along with other senior government officials and experts.