Pakistan Aims to Harness AI Revolution for Economic Growth and Development

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is poised to leverage the global technological transformation, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI), to foster national development and economic growth, according to IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja. Speaking at the Margalla Dialogue 2026 on Wednesday, she emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunities presented by AI, which is projected to become a $4.8 trillion sector by 2033, potentially impacting 40% of global employment.

Khawaja highlighted that technology is fundamentally reshaping various sectors, including education, healthcare, and national security. She pointed out that the rapid advancement of AI is accelerating this transformation, fundamentally altering how states and societies operate. “The key question is who will steer this transformation and shape the values and identities of future societies,” she stated.

This initiative reflects Pakistan’s commitment to not only participate in the global AI landscape but also to ensure that it translates into tangible benefits for its citizens. The minister’s remarks come amid calls for innovative approaches to counter terrorism, including dialogue with insurgents in Balochistan, indicating a multifaceted strategy to address national challenges.

Looking ahead, the government plans to engage in further discussions and collaborations to develop a comprehensive framework for AI integration across various sectors. This includes potential partnerships with international tech firms and academic institutions to enhance local capabilities and foster innovation.