ISLAMABAD, Feb 09 (APP): Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Monday said Pakistan has formally articulated its vision on artificial intelligence through the adoption of the Islamabad Artificial Intelligence Declaration, aimed at promoting a sovereign, inclusive and outcome-driven AI ecosystem.
Addressing Indus AI Week 2026, the minister said the declaration was finalised after detailed deliberations, including a high-level roundtable held the night before with more than 40 global technology leaders from across the world.
The event brought together national and international AI experts, industry leaders and government representatives to engage in high-level discussions and envision the future of artificial intelligence in Pakistan.
She thanked international participants for travelling to Pakistan and acknowledged the efforts of the Pakistan Digital Authority, the Ministry of IT team, Pakistan Software Export Board, Universal Service Fund, and other institutions involved in organising the initiative.
Shaza Fatima said the declaration underscores a private sector-led and government-enabled approach to artificial intelligence, with a focus on strengthening Pakistan’s digital society, digital economy and digital governance.
She emphasised that the framework is anchored in public value and public trust, supported by strong institutions, responsible safeguards and disciplined execution, while ensuring space for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The minister outlined eight core pillars of the Islamabad AI Declaration: sovereign purpose and measurable public value; human accountability under constitutional authority; use case-first pragmatic delivery; sovereign data privacy and trust; explainable, auditable and safe AI; a whole-of-government approach to AI governance; inclusive and responsible innovation; and private sector-led, sovereign and open AI ecosystems.
She said the declaration was developed under the direction of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and reflects some of his earliest directives to define Pakistan’s position on artificial intelligence at the global level.
Approved by the prime minister and shaped through consultations with local and international stakeholders, the declaration represents Pakistan’s formal commitment to responsible AI development.
Shaza Fatima reaffirmed that Pakistan aims to lead by example in adopting artificial intelligence that is ethical, transparent and aligned with national priorities.
Former Chief Information Officer of Estonia, Siim Sikkut, who also addressed the event, said nationwide digitalisation was essential to deliver services efficiently, remain competitive and strengthen governance.
He said embracing artificial intelligence as a core element of digital transformation had become a necessity rather than a choice.
He lauded Pakistan’s progress under the Pakistan Digital Nation Act and the establishment of the Pakistan Digital Authority, describing them as strong foundations for building a digital nation.
Emphasising partnerships, he said collaboration between the public and private sectors, along with international cooperation, would be key to realising Pakistan’s AI ambitions.
He added that global experts and partners present at the event were ready to support Pakistan in translating its digital and AI vision into reality, wishing the country success in its journey towards becoming a digital nation.