Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Officer Mian Kashif Ashfaq has called for stronger Pakistan-China cooperation in artificial intelligence (AI). He urged Pakistan to expand its AI capabilities through international partnerships, infrastructure investment and workforce development.
Speaking at a meeting of the PFC Board of Directors on Sunday, Ashfaq said the global AI landscape was undergoing a major geopolitical shift. Therefore, he stressed that Pakistan must actively participate in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
He added that developing countries would only benefit from “AI for all” by building, adapting and governing AI technologies effectively.
PFC CEO Welcomes China’s AI Support Initiative
Ashfaq welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s announcement during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. China pledged to support developing countries, including Pakistan, in AI innovation, application and governance.
He said China’s approach extends beyond technology access. Instead, it also promotes skills development and strengthens institutional capacity. Consequently, partner countries can achieve more sustainable AI growth.
Furthermore, he noted that China’s outreach coincides with similar efforts by the United States. Both countries are expanding international technology partnerships while securing AI-related supply chains. As a result, artificial intelligence has gained increasing geopolitical importance.
Calls For Investment And Global AI Partnerships
Ashfaq urged Pakistan to align its National Artificial Intelligence Policy with priorities highlighted at the WAIC. These priorities include expanding AI infrastructure, attracting investment and developing a skilled workforce.
Moreover, he called for practical cooperation with China and other WAIC member countries. He highlighted research partnerships, workforce training, computing infrastructure and technology transfer as key areas of collaboration.
He also encouraged Pakistan to use international AI forums to promote inclusive global AI governance. According to him, such frameworks would address the needs of developing economies and help reduce technological inequalities.
