SHANGHAI (special crosspondent) – Pakistan on Friday officially reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and equitable global artificial intelligence (AI) governance as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar attended the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai. The event featured a keynote address by Chinese President Xi Jinping, underscoring the international significance of the gathering.

Senator Dar led the Pakistani delegation, arriving shortly after the formal establishment of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO). By signing the foundational agreement, Pakistan solidified its position as a founding member of this new international body, a move intended to bolster global cooperation on AI regulatory frameworks.

Commitment to Inclusive AI Development

According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the nation advocates for a human-centered approach to technology. This policy aims to ensure equitable access to emerging digital tools for all nations, irrespective of their current economic standing. Islamabad has consistently urged the international community to prioritize capacity-building for developing states to effectively bridge the global digital divide.

The Foreign Office stated that Pakistan firmly believes the benefits of artificial intelligence must be distributed fairly. The country has been a vocal proponent of governance structures that foster innovation while simultaneously addressing ethical, developmental, and security-related challenges. This aligns with Pakistan’s broader objective of advocating for equitable global artificial intelligence governance on various international platforms.

Multilateral Cooperation in Emerging Technologies

The creation of WAICO arrives as nations increasingly seek robust multilateral mechanisms to harmonize AI regulation, technical standards, and research cooperation. The organization is tasked with facilitating synergy among member states regarding AI policy, talent development, and technology sharing, which are essential for navigating the complexities of the digital age.

The annual World Artificial Intelligence Conference, hosted by China in Shanghai since 2018, has become a premier global forum. It serves as a vital nexus for heads of state, policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to deliberate on the future of AI and digital governance. Pakistan’s proactive engagement in these forums highlights its dedication to ensuring developing nations maintain a significant voice in shaping the global technological agenda.