Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, during his address at the Stratcom Summit 2024, emphasized the urgent need for establishing a global regulatory framework to ensure the ethical and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to this objective, he underscored the country’s dedication to implementing its National AI Policy in alignment with international best practices and ethical guidelines. Tarar acknowledged the transformative potential of AI for socio-economic advancement but also warned of the inherent risks, particularly the spread of misinformation. He stated that while AI offers significant opportunities for progress, unchecked use can destabilize societies. To counter these challenges, Pakistan is introducing AI training modules aimed at empowering the youth, with the goal of training one million young people in IT skills by next year.
Tarar highlighted that Pakistan’s greatest asset is its youth, comprising 68% of the population. To harness this potential, the government is advancing AI applications in sectors such as Agri-Tech, Fin-Tech, and Health-Tech. He elaborated on the country’s growing digital landscape, citing 111 million internet users, 71 million social media users, and nearly 188 million mobile phone subscribers. These statistics reflect the scale of digital transformation and the need for comprehensive regulation. He also mentioned ongoing efforts to enhance internet access through the National Fiberization Policy and the anticipated rollout of 5G technology to further boost digital connectivity.
The minister expressed concern over the global challenge of misinformation, referring to a World Economic Forum report that identifies misinformation as a significant threat. He stressed the importance of developing AI-based tools such as large language models (LLMs) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) systems to combat the spread of false information. Without robust frameworks, he warned, misinformation could severely undermine societal cohesion and national security.
Discussing the practical applications of AI in Pakistan, Tarar highlighted its role in improving various sectors. In agriculture, AI technologies are being deployed to enhance productivity and ensure sustainable practices. In healthcare, AI solutions are improving responses to diseases like polio and hepatitis, particularly in remote and underserved areas. He also noted how AI is facilitating remote education for disadvantaged children, ensuring that educational opportunities reach those who need them most. Additionally, he underscored AI’s role in improving climate resilience, particularly in response to disasters such as the devastating floods of 2022. AI-driven tools are being used to enhance disaster preparedness and response in high-risk regions.
Tarar called for international collaboration, urging the global community to come together and create a unified framework for the ethical use of AI. He referenced successful digital policies in countries such as the UAE, India, Estonia, and Singapore, noting that these nations have implemented transparent and ethical AI practices that promote stability and innovation. The minister stressed that Pakistan’s AI policy is not intended to serve as a tool for mass surveillance but as a means to foster development, transparency, and inclusivity. Digital rights organizations, he assured, would be involved in shaping this policy to address concerns related to privacy and ethical use.
Pakistan’s approach to AI focuses on leveraging technology for positive outcomes in Agri-Tech, Edu-Tech, Health-Tech, and Fin-Tech, aiming to address challenges while maximizing benefits for society. Tarar reiterated that AI must be used responsibly to ensure a sustainable and inclusive future. By committing to ethical standards, Pakistan hopes to set an example for how AI can drive economic and social progress without compromising fundamental rights. The summit underscored the importance of international cooperation and the need for robust AI regulations to harness the technology’s potential while mitigating its risks.
