PM Shehbaz says AI and digitisation key to national progress, reviews Alibaba projects

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Wednesday that the key to national progress lies in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digitisation. He was chairing a review meeting on AI and digitisation in the economy and governance, and on progress in cooperation with the Alibaba Group.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, he stressed the rapid adoption of these technologies in key sectors, including Agriculture, trade, Health and governance. He said their effective use improves trade, exports, farm output, ease of doing business and the quality of public services.

Shehbaz Sharif said a memorandum of understanding was signed at Alibaba’s headquarters in Hangzhou during his visit to China. He said that, through the partnership with Alibaba, giving small and medium businesses access to global markets is among the government’s top priorities. He welcomed Alibaba’s support for automation in the agriculture sector and for the export of Pakistani farm produce to Chinese markets.

The Prime Minister directed that all projects be completed with clear targets, timelines and an effective monitoring system. The relevant ministries were ordered to complete all necessary steps by November and submit a progress report.

The meeting was briefed that work is under way on AI-based models in Agriculture, track-and-trace Technology for tobacco, and a digital platform for the export of oranges and olives. A dedicated Pakistan Pavilion has also been set up on Alibaba’s website for the export of Pakistani products.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, a system for the digital verification of trade documents through the Pakistan Single Window is now operational. A two-year programme is also being launched with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority and Alibaba. It will give small businesses access to global markets, training and e-commerce opportunities.

The meeting also reviewed the development of a modern data platform and a central data Hub for the FBR and PRAL, and a proposed pilot project for AI-assisted cancer diagnosis in the Health sector.