PM Shehbaz Directs Faster Implementation of Pakistan-Alibaba AI Partnership
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday directed the government to move faster on Pakistan’s artificial intelligence partnership with Alibaba, saying AI and digitalisation hold the key to the country’s economic progress.
Chairing a high-level review meeting in Islamabad on progress in artificial intelligence and digital technology across the economy and the public sector, the prime minister stressed that cooperation with the Chinese technology giant must be converted into practical, measurable results. “The secret to Pakistan’s development lies in artificial intelligence and digitalisation,” the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) quoted him as saying.
He said modern technology could improve trade, exports, agricultural productivity, the business environment and the quality of public services — and asked ministries to set clear targets and timelines, complete the necessary measures by November and submit a progress report.
AI for Healthcare and Agriculture
The prime minister directed authorities to implement an AI-assisted cancer early-detection system at the earliest opportunity in collaboration with Alibaba, and officials also discussed a proposed pilot project for AI-assisted cancer diagnosis. He welcomed Alibaba’s cooperation in facilitating Pakistani agricultural exports to Chinese markets and highlighted plans to introduce automation and AI-based solutions in farming.
The meeting also reviewed work on AI-based agricultural models, tobacco track-and-trace technology and digital platforms to facilitate exports of citrus fruits and olives, as part of broader efforts to use technology to improve productivity and expand access to international markets.
15-Day AI Training Programme for IT Graduates
Shehbaz Sharif directed the Ministry of Information Technology to launch a 15-day AI training programme for IT graduates under the Ignite programme, in collaboration with Alibaba. He said Pakistan should use the partnership to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) reach international customers and create opportunities for technology-led growth.
Meanwhile, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and Alibaba are launching a two-year programme to provide SMEs with access to international markets, training and e-commerce opportunities — a major opening for Pakistan’s exporters and online sellers.
Digital Tools for Trade and Petroleum Monitoring
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has been directed to introduce an analytics system to monitor the petroleum products supply chain with Alibaba’s support, with AI tools being provided to assist the regulator. The Export Promotion Board was also instructed to work with Alibaba to help increase Pakistan’s exports.
According to the PMO, a dedicated Pakistan pavilion is already operating on Alibaba’s platform to promote locally made products in international markets, and a digital system for verifying trade documents through Pakistan Single Window has also become operational.
Data Platform and Digital Governance
The meeting reviewed progress on an advanced data platform and a central data hub for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Pakistan Revenue Automation Limited (PRAL). Other initiatives involving higher education, railways, postal services and urban administration were described as being in their final stages of completion.
Shehbaz directed the relevant authorities to monitor every project closely and ensure the partnership delivered measurable outcomes.
Pakistan’s Growing AI Cooperation
The government and Alibaba signed a memorandum of understanding at the company’s headquarters in Hangzhou during the prime minister’s visit to China in May. Pakistan has also backed China’s initiative to establish the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), becoming a founding member in July after Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed the agreement in Shanghai.
Earlier this year, Shehbaz Sharif announced a government plan to invest $1 billion in AI by 2030, reflecting the government’s stated intention to expand AI use across trade, agriculture, healthcare and public administration.
Sources: Prime Minister’s Office statement, as reported by The AZB; PM’s May China visit context via Arab News Pakistan.
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