Islamabad:
The government has directed the Ministry of Information Technology and the Ministry of Communications (MOITT) to focus on developing commercial applications and to stop the construction of AI platforms.
He also used AI technology to create tailor-made applications for ministries and departments, instructing ministries to streamline work processes, make them more efficient and improve management of government businesses.
In July, the Cabinet approved the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy 2025 and issued some instructions for its use.
During the discussion, cabinet members appreciated Moitt's efforts to devise the policy. Members also made proposals to make the framework more robust and meaningful in the social and national context of Pakistan. The Prime Minister praised Moit, pointing out that while change often poses challenges, AI is a need for time and policy is a step in the right direction.
Cabinet has directed that AI policies should focus on developing commercial applications rather than investing in the platform. He also acknowledged that AI recruitment in the workplace could lead to unemployment, highlighting the need to reskill at-risk workers. To meet the growing demand for the AI skills workforce, this policy must ensure that universities produce sufficient numbers of AI graduates. The basics of AI must also be introduced at the school level to direct children from a young age.
Cabinet also asked Moitt to ensure that the benefits of AI are not limited to elites and that rural and urban disparities do not emerge from the adoption of new technologies.
Moitt was tasked with working with the Finance and Planning departments to ensure that the resources were available to meet policy goals. The ministry was also directed to prioritize work on cloud policies.
Moit explained to the Cabinet that Pakistan's IT sector has experienced incredible growth and is an important driver of economic development. The industry has consistently shown resilience and innovation, and exports have recorded strong double-digit growth in recent years.
This trajectory highlights the growing global presence of Pakistan and the potential to further contribute to the prosperity of its people. The country stands at a critical period in the world's technological landscape, indicating that emerging technologies strongly promise and position Pakistan as a potential technology destination.
The Cabinet has been recognized that emerging technologies, including AI, are becoming increasingly important to the IT sector and bringing the importance of a strategic national. AI is rapidly rebuilding industries around the world with agriculture, logistics, smart city, manufacturing, energy and healthcare applications. AI offers great opportunities for growth, but also comes with risk. Many countries are developing policies and regulations to maximize profits while minimizing potential shortcomings.
The Cabinet has been notified that industry estimates that the global AI market size is expected to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Authorities emphasized that this is the right time for Pakistan to adopt a comprehensive approach to AI. Rapid global advances have led Pakistan to need a comprehensive policy to leverage the possibilities of AI while addressing challenges.
Moitt had already begun work on drafting national AI policies to gain opportunities and prepare for risk. As part of the open process, the draft was developed with input from ministries, public sector entities and state governments. It was also published on the Ministry's website for public comment. A comprehensive committee consisting of representatives from the public and private sector, industry and academia completed the draft after reviewing and incorporating stakeholder feedback.
The Cabinet has been informed that the national AI policy draft is based on six pillars: AI innovation ecosystem, recognition and preparation, secure AI ecosystem, transformation and evolution, AI infrastructure, and international partnerships and collaboration.
This policy acts as a guide framework, coordinates scattered initiatives and promotes new initiatives across the sector. Current AI development efforts remain fragmented, leaving inefficiency and missed opportunities.
Uniform policies coordinate investments in research, talent, infrastructure and ethical guidelines, creating an environment that encourages innovation. It also promotes collaboration between academia, industry and government, ensuring that AI solutions are tailored to Pakistan's unique needs and challenges.
