Pakistan to invest $1 billion in AI by 2030: PM Shehbaz

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled plans to invest $1 billion in Artificial Intelligence (AI) by 2030, aiming to establish a thriving AI ecosystem across Pakistan.

Speaking at the opening of Indus AI Week in Islamabad on Monday, he said that the investment will lay the foundation for the country’s technological future.

PM Shehbaz outlined that AI education will soon be introduced in all federally controlled schools and extended to regions including Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan, and mast parts of Balochistan, preparing young Pakistanis for leadership roles in a digital economy.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering advanced research, The prime minister announced 1,000 fully-funded PhD scholarships in AI for students from across the country, which will contribute to building world-class research centers.

PM Shehbaz further revealed plans to train one million professionals outside the IT sector in AI, helping them increase productivity and improve their livelihoods.

Expressing confidence in Pakistan’s readiness to compete on the global stage, the prime minister said the country is set to become a significant partner in AI development.

“Our programs will transform young IT technicians into AI experts,” PM Shehbaz said, describing Indus AI Week as a potential turning point for Pakistan’s technological growth.

Speaking at the event, Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal also, emphasised that Pakistan is determined to take a leadership role in emerging technologies.

He shared details of upcoming national centers, including initiatives in quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, and nanotechnology. 

Iqbal also highlighted the Quantum Valley project, designed as a holistic innovation ecosystem with four specialised science parks focused on emerging technologies, mining and minerals, agricultural technology, and biosciences.

Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima underlined that Pakistan seeks to guide AI development in line with its national priorities and values.

She added that this year will mark the execution of the AI policy launched in September2025, signaling a major step forward in the country’s technological journey.