Pakistan eyes AI future as China’s new global initiative opens fresh opportunities
Pakistan’s membership in the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation could strengthen AI research, infrastructure and skills while reshaping its role in the global digital economy.
Delegates attend the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai as China launches a new global AI initiative.
ISLAMABAD: AI cooperation has emerged as a key strategic opportunity for Pakistan after the country joined the newly launched World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (Waico), a China-led initiative aimed at expanding global collaboration in artificial intelligence.
Chinese President Xi Jinping announced the vision during the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai on July 17, saying AI development should be “a symphony of global cooperation” rather than the effort of a single nation.
Pakistan joins founding members
Pakistan is among the 29 founding members of Waico, which officially began operations on July 16.
The organisation seeks to promote international cooperation in AI research, governance, regulation and technology sharing.
Its founding members also include Brazil, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Africa, Senegal and Russia, reflecting China’s growing engagement with developing economies.
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Opportunities for Pakistan
Experts believe Pakistan could benefit from greater collaboration in AI research, workforce training and computing infrastructure.
The country continues to face challenges such as limited computing resources, shortages of skilled professionals and financial constraints.
Participation in Waico could help Pakistan improve its digital capabilities through technology partnerships and knowledge sharing.
China expands AI partnerships
At the Shanghai conference, China announced several initiatives to support developing countries.
The government pledged 5,000 AI training and seminar opportunities and proposed establishing regional AI cooperation centres.
It also offered support for deploying Chinese AI models and applications in partner countries.
These initiatives aim to make advanced AI technology more accessible to emerging economies.
Global AI competition intensifies
Artificial intelligence has become a major area of competition between China and the United States.
Washington has restricted China’s access to advanced semiconductor technology, while Beijing has responded with export controls on critical minerals and dual-use technologies.
The competition now extends beyond hardware to include AI standards, supply chains and international governance.
Pakistan’s AI policy supports collaboration
Pakistan’s National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025 shares many of Waico’s priorities.
The policy focuses on expanding AI infrastructure, attracting investment and developing skilled professionals.
Meanwhile, the government’s AI Seekho programme aims to train one million people in AI-related skills.
Experts say these initiatives could strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global AI economy if implemented effectively.
Need for practical partnerships
Analysts argue that Pakistan should now move beyond policy announcements.
They say Islamabad should pursue research partnerships, technology transfer, workforce development and investment with China and other Waico members.
They also recommend that Pakistan play an active role in shaping international AI governance to ensure developing countries have a stronger voice in future regulations.
As artificial intelligence transforms industries worldwide, experts believe Pakistan’s long-term success will depend on its ability to develop, adopt and govern AI rather than simply consume foreign technologies.
