LAHORE, Aug 02 (APP):Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Officer,Mian Kashif Ashfaq on Sunday said the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape was undergoing a major geopolitical shift,urging Pakistan to strengthen its AI capabilities through strategic international cooperation,investment in infrastructure and workforce development. Chairing a meeting of the PFC Board of Directors here,he said that for Pakistan and other developing countries,the promise of “AI for all” would depend not only on …
PFC CEO calls for stronger Pakistan-China AI cooperation
LAHORE, Aug 02 (APP):Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Officer,Mian Kashif Ashfaq on Sunday said the global artificial intelligence (AI) landscape was undergoing a major geopolitical shift,urging Pakistan to strengthen its AI capabilities through strategic international cooperation,investment in infrastructure and workforce development.
Chairing a meeting of the PFC Board of Directors here,he said that for Pakistan and other developing countries,the promise of “AI for all” would depend not only on access to technology but also on their ability to build,adapt and govern AI as active participants in its future.
He appreciated Chinese President Xi Jinping’s announcement at the opening of the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai in which China pledged to support developing countries,including Pakistan,in advancing AI innovation, application and governance.
Mian Kashif said China’s approach extended beyond providing access to technology by supporting skills development and strengthening institutional capacity,creating opportunities for sustainable AI growth in partner countries.
He observed that China’s outreach coincided with parallel efforts by the United States to expand international technology partnerships and secure AI-related supply chains,underscoring the growing geopolitical significance of artificial intelligence.
He stressed that Pakistan’s National Artificial Intelligence Policy should align with key priorities highlighted at the WAIC, particularly in expanding AI infrastructure,attracting investment and developing skilled human resources.
The PFC CEO also called for practical cooperation with China and other WAIC member countries in areas including research partnerships,workforce development,computing infrastructure and technology transfer.
He added that Pakistan should use its participation in international AI forums to advocate for inclusive global AI governance frameworks that address the development needs of emerging economies and help reduce technological inequalities.
