Pakistan Becomes Founding Member of Global AI Organisation in Major Technology Milestone
Pakistan has officially become a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), marking an important step in the country’s efforts to strengthen its role in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed the agreement on behalf of Pakistan during a ceremony held in Shanghai, China, where global leaders, technology experts, and policymakers gathered for the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026.
The new organisation was proposed by China to promote international cooperation on artificial intelligence and create a platform where countries can work together on AI development, innovation, research, and governance.
What Is WAICO?
The World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO) is a newly established international body that aims to improve global cooperation in artificial intelligence. The organisation will focus on promoting responsible AI development, encouraging innovation, and ensuring that developing countries also benefit from the rapid growth of AI technology.
WAICO also aims to reduce the global technology gap by helping countries improve access to AI knowledge, research, and digital innovation.
Why Is Pakistan’s Membership Important?
As one of the founding members, Pakistan will have the opportunity to participate in shaping future discussions on artificial intelligence at the international level.
The government says Pakistan wants to use AI to improve education, healthcare, agriculture, public services, digital governance, cybersecurity, and economic development.
Pakistan also hopes to work with other member countries to encourage fair access to AI technologies, especially for developing nations.
Pakistan and China Expand AI Cooperation
During his visit to Shanghai, Ishaq Dar held a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, where both leaders discussed expanding cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital technology, science, trade, and investment.
The two sides also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the long-standing Pakistan-China partnership and advancing projects under CPEC 2.0, with greater focus on technology, innovation, and the digital economy.
AI Becoming a National Priority
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing industries around the world, including healthcare, banking, manufacturing, transportation, education, and government services. Many countries are investing heavily in AI to improve productivity and economic growth.
Pakistan has also started focusing on digital transformation by promoting information technology, startups, innovation, and AI-based solutions. Experts believe that joining WAICO could help Pakistani researchers, universities, technology companies, and startups build stronger international partnerships and gain access to new opportunities.
Global Focus on Artificial Intelligence
The World Artificial Intelligence Conference 2026 brought together government officials, technology companies, researchers, and international organisations to discuss the future of AI.
The conference focused on responsible AI development, international cooperation, digital innovation, and ensuring that artificial intelligence benefits people across the world rather than creating greater technological inequality.
Pakistan’s participation as a founding member reflects its growing interest in becoming part of the global digital economy and contributing to the future of artificial intelligence.
As AI continues to reshape industries worldwide, Pakistan’s role in WAICO could open new opportunities for research, investment, innovation, and international collaboration in one of the world’s fastest-growing technologies.
