Pakistan, Russia agree to expand cooperation in IT, AI and advanced computing

Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal chaired the event. Addressing the webinar, Ahsan Iqbal said the capabilities of Pakistani youth and Russia's scientific and engineering expertise could complement each other and create new opportunities for technological advancement.

He said the E-Pakistan initiative under the Uraan Pakistan programme was a key pillar of the country's economic transformation. He added that Pakistan had set a target of becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2035.

During the meeting, participants discussed opportunities for joint projects and investment in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, cybersecurity, quantum computing and advanced software technologies. The participants also proposed developing joint technology products, launching pilot projects and strengthening business-to-business connections between Pakistani and Russian companies.

Ahsan Iqbal said technological cooperation between Pakistan and Russia could generate joint products, attract investment and create new employment opportunities. He added that stronger collaboration would also help the IT industries of both countries gain greater access to international markets and expand their presence in the global technology sector.