Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, held a meeting with a prominent Chinese delegation during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. The session served to explore areas of collaboration between Pakistan and China, particularly in artificial intelligence skills development, digital governance, smart city infrastructure, and innovative health technology.
Among the key proposals discussed was the initiation of an AI-focused skills exchange program tailored for Pakistani youth. The program aims to provide structured learning and training opportunities by leveraging China’s advanced capabilities in artificial intelligence. The objective is to equip Pakistani talent with practical expertise while strengthening knowledge-sharing mechanisms between the two countries. Additionally, the discussions included collaboration with the National IT Board to develop digital governance tools that support more efficient and transparent public sector management.
The Chinese delegation presented ideas to promote partnerships with Pakistani startups operating in health tech, edtech, and fintech. These joint ventures are expected to facilitate knowledge transfer, encourage innovation, and introduce AI-powered applications that address local challenges in healthcare, education, and financial services. The delegation also showed interest in deploying smart maintenance machinery and AI-based systems within Pakistan’s industrial landscape to increase operational efficiency.
An important area of focus was AI-powered Chinese medicine and its potential to support the treatment of chronic and neurological diseases. The delegation outlined ongoing research efforts and conveyed a willingness to expand joint studies and pilot programs in collaboration with Pakistani health institutions and researchers.
The visiting team included Cheng Dong, Member of the Standing Committee of the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese and Executive Vice President of Shanghai Zhangjiang High-tech City Medical Innovation Research Institute; Liu Yuangui, Vice President of Shenlan Technology (Shanghai) Co. Ltd.; Professor Zhao Shanting, a German-trained medical doctor and doctoral supervisor; and Dr. He Bin, a German PhD and assistant to Prof. Zhao. Their presence reflected a broad institutional interest in forming long-term partnerships with Pakistan’s public and private tech sectors.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja welcomed the proposals and emphasized Pakistan’s strategic focus on emerging technologies as a foundation for socio-economic advancement. She reiterated MOITT’s full support in creating enabling environments for international partnerships that contribute to innovation, capacity building, and inclusive digital growth. Her engagement during the conference reaffirmed Pakistan’s intention to align with global technology trends while creating practical opportunities for national development through collaboration and investment.
