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The Pak-Saudi digital and economic collaboration at LEAP 2025 has taken a significant step forward, further strengthening ties between the two countries. Held alongside the Pak-Saudi Business Forum, the event focused on exploring investment opportunities, forging technological partnerships, and enhancing bilateral trade in the digital economy.
The Pak-Saudi Business Forum, organized during LEAP 2025, attracted top business leaders, government officials, and tech experts from both nations. Among the notable attendees was Deema Al Yahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), who stressed the importance of this growing partnership.
Minister of State for IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, highlighted the remarkable growth in Pakistan’s ICT sector. She revealed a 28% increase in ICT exports during the first half of FY 2024-25, reaching $1.86 billion. Minister Khawaja also emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing digital transformation and record participation at LEAP 2025, which she hopes will lead to long-term partnerships and business agreements.
Shaping the Future of Ethical AI
During the DCO Ministerial Panel at LEAP 2025, titled “Shaping the Future of Ethical AI: Multilateral Perspectives on Governance and Risk Management,” Minister Shaza emphasized the importance of ethical AI governance, data security, and digital inclusivity. The panel discussion, hosted by Deemah Al Yahya, brought together global leaders to discuss responsible AI implementation.
Minister Shaza highlighted the transformative potential of AI, calling for multilateral cooperation and robust regulatory frameworks to ensure AI benefits all segments of society. She stressed the need for data privacy, fairness, and security in AI systems, advocating for global collaboration in establishing governance models that promote responsible AI while preventing discrimination and ensuring equal digital opportunities.
She also addressed the importance of bridging the digital divide in developing nations through inclusive policies and capacity-building initiatives. the minister encouraged using AI as a tool for social empowerment, aiming to create a more equitable digital future that goes beyond economic growth.
Focusing on sustainability, Minister Shaza called for environmentally responsible AI development to minimize its carbon footprint. She reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to transparency and accountability in digital platforms, underscoring the need for a global governance framework that balances innovation with ethical deployment.
Speaking on Pakistan’s AI strategy, the minister outlined the government’s efforts in developing a comprehensive AI policy. This policy aims to enhance public services, drive economic growth, and build a sustainable digital ecosystem while prioritizing ethical considerations.
Advancing Pakistan’s Digital Future
The minister outlined key policy achievements, including the AI Policy, National Fiberization Policy, and Semiconductor Policy, all designed to support Pakistan’s tech-driven future. She also highlighted the recently passed Digital Nation Act 2025, describing it as a major step forward for the country’s digital growth, with substantial support from the DCO.
Minister Shaza announced the Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) Forum to be held in Islamabad and invited stakeholders to expand Pak-Saudi cooperation in technology sectors such as AI, Fintech, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing.
She praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership and the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in fostering investor confidence and driving Pakistan’s digital transformation. Expressing support for Saudi Vision 2030, she encouraged Saudi investors to explore Pakistan’s tech solutions and skilled workforce.
With over 100 tech companies and 1,000 delegates, Pakistan’s largest-ever participation at LEAP 2025 reflects its expanding global digital footprint. This milestone highlights the growing potential for technological and economic cooperation between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the broader global community.
