Pakistan has officially become a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO). The milestone came after Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed the agreement establishing the new organization during a ceremony in Shanghai, China.
The move reflects Pakistan’s commitment to expanding international cooperation in artificial intelligence while supporting inclusive technological development.
Moreover, Pakistan aims to strengthen collaboration with other member states to promote equitable access to AI technologies, particularly for developing countries.
Agreement Signed in Shanghai
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar signed the WAICO agreement on behalf of Pakistan during his two-day visit to Shanghai.
With this step, Pakistan officially joined the newly established international organization as one of its founding members.
According to the Foreign Office, Pakistan remains committed to advancing global cooperation in artificial intelligence, especially from the perspective of the Global South.
Furthermore, the country intends to work closely with fellow WAICO members to reduce the global AI divide and improve access to emerging technologies.
Pakistan Supports Inclusive AI Development
By joining WAICO, Pakistan seeks to promote responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence development.
The organization aims to encourage international cooperation while supporting equitable AI governance and technological progress.
In addition, Pakistan views AI as an important driver of future economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
The country also hopes stronger international partnerships will create new opportunities in research, technology, and digital transformation.
Dar Participates in World Artificial Intelligence Conference
During his visit, Ishaq Dar also participated in the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026 in Shanghai.
The conference brings together government leaders, technology experts, researchers, and industry representatives to discuss artificial intelligence, innovation, and global AI governance.
Besides attending the signing ceremony, Dar held meetings with international leaders to strengthen cooperation in artificial intelligence and digital technologies.
Pakistan and China Review Strategic Cooperation
On the sidelines of WAIC 2026, Ishaq Dar held a bilateral meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
During the meeting, both leaders reviewed Pakistan-China bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
They also discussed expanding cooperation under CPEC 2.0 while exploring greater collaboration in trade, investment, science and technology, the digital economy, and artificial intelligence.
Furthermore, both sides exchanged views on regional and international developments and agreed to maintain close coordination on matters of mutual interest.
The discussions reflected the shared commitment of both countries to innovation-driven development and emerging technologies.
China Continues to Promote Global AI Cooperation
China proposed the creation of WAICO last year as part of its broader vision for international artificial intelligence governance.
The initiative aims to encourage global cooperation while promoting responsible AI development and wider technology access.
Earlier this year, during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China, Pakistan expressed support for China’s proposal to establish WAICO.
At that time, Pakistan pledged to work with China in advancing international cooperation and improving global AI governance.
WAIC 2026 Highlights Emerging AI Technologies
The World Artificial Intelligence Conference has become one of the world’s leading forums for discussing artificial intelligence and future technologies.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to present China’s vision for global AI governance during the conference.
Meanwhile, Huawei is expected to showcase its Atlas 950 SuperPoD AI computing system, demonstrating China’s continued progress in advanced computing technologies.
Chinese technology companies are also expected to introduce new AI computing platforms and innovations during the event.
Additionally, the conference will feature discussions on AI governance, open-source technologies, digital innovation, and international cooperation.
Pakistan Expands Its Role in Global AI Cooperation
Pakistan’s founding membership in WAICO marks an important step in the country’s growing engagement with emerging technologies.
The agreement also strengthens Pakistan’s participation in global discussions on artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and innovation.
As AI continues shaping economies worldwide, Pakistan’s involvement in international initiatives such as WAICO is expected to support greater collaboration, knowledge sharing, and long-term technological development.
