Lahore: The Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) has highlighted the significant potential of Pakistan-China cooperation under CPEC 2.0 and the proposed $1 billion Artificial Intelligence (AI) fund by the government to accelerate the country's shift towards a digital economy and future growth.
According to Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry, PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain described the AI fund as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening governance, promoting innovation, and providing opportunities for Pakistan's youth, who make up around 63% of the population. Hussain emphasized the importance of integrating advanced technologies into national development for sustainable economic growth.
Brigadier Mansoor Saeed Sheikh, Senior Vice President of PCJCCI, stated that the program seeks to create a comprehensive technological ecosystem nationwide. He mentioned plans to introduce AI education in federally administered schools and offer 1,000 fully funded PhD scholarships by 2030 to foster a research-driven development environment.
PCJCCI Secretary General Salahuddin Hanif noted that training one million non-IT professionals in AI-related skills would enhance productivity, improve livelihoods, and help traditional sectors adapt to modern technological demands. Hanif emphasized that these efforts aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure wider participation in the digital economy.
The PCJCCI President also underscored that CPEC 2.0 initiatives align with Pakistan's "Uraan Pakistan" program, which focuses on boosting exports, ensuring affordable energy, improving efficiency, and promoting environmental sustainability. The synergy between these frameworks, he stated, could strengthen Pakistan's economic resilience and global competitiveness.
PCJCCI reaffirmed its commitment to fostering Pakistan-China collaboration in emerging technologies and innovation-driven sectors, encouraging public-private partnerships to leverage the full potential of AI and digital transformation for sustainable economic development.