A delegation from the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), a leading Chinese state-owned enterprise, met with Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday to discuss collaboration in advanced and emerging technologies.
During the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between CETC and the Emerging Technologies Lab, a project of the Ministry of Planning funded under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). The agreement focuses on joint research, innovation, and capacity building in quantum technologies.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal said China would help Pakistan establish the National Center for Quantum Computing, which he described as an important step in the country’s technological progress. He said the collaboration marked a new phase in Pakistan-China scientific ties, noting that quantum technology could transform Pakistan’s technological landscape.
The minister said the government’s ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative aims to expand access to advanced technologies such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence to prepare the economy for the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He added that investments in innovation and research are essential for achieving sustainable economic growth.
Ahsan Iqbal also announced the launch of the Quantum Valley Project, which he said would serve as Pakistan’s version of Silicon Valley — a hub for innovation, technology, and knowledge-based development.
He noted that cooperation with China under Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) places emphasis on industrial modernization, digital transformation, and skill development. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to long-term collaboration for advancing research, innovation, and national development.
