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Pakistan and China have taken a major step toward technological advancement with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration in quantum technologies. The agreement was formalized in Islamabad during a meeting between a high-level delegation of the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) and Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal.
The MoU, signed between CETC and Pakistan’s Emerging Technologies Lab a PSDP-funded project under the Ministry of Planning aims to strengthen cooperation in research, innovation, and capacity building in the field of advanced technologies. It will promote joint initiatives, knowledge exchange, and the development of cutting-edge solutions in quantum computing.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ahsan Iqbal announced that China would assist Pakistan in establishing a National Center for Quantum Computing, marking a significant leap in Pakistan’s digital transformation.
“This partnership represents a new chapter in Pakistan-China scientific relations. Quantum technology is the future, and our cooperation with China will be a game changer,” he stated.
Highlighting the government’s vision under the ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative, the minister emphasized that quantum computing and artificial intelligence are the building blocks of modern economies. He revealed that Pakistan is also launching the Quantum Valley Project, envisioned as the country’s own “Silicon Valley,” to promote innovation and knowledge-based development.
“Investing in emerging technologies is essential to join the ranks of developed nations,” Ahsan Iqbal added, stressing that technological cooperation with China under CPEC Phase-II would drive industrial modernization, digital transformation, and human resource development.
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to deepening long-term cooperation and fostering innovation-driven growth for mutual prosperity.
