Pakistan and China signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Thursday to strengthen cooperation in quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced technology research. The move aims to position Pakistan for the Fourth Industrial Revolution.
China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), a leading Chinese state-owned conglomerate, and Pakistan’s Emerging Technologies Lab, a Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP)-funded project under the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, signed the agreement.
The MoU emphasises joint research, innovation, and capacity building in quantum technologies. It also promotes knowledge exchange and technical collaboration between the two countries.
Speaking at the ceremony, Federal Minister for Planning Professor Ahsan Iqbal said China would help Pakistan establish the National Centre for Quantum Computing, calling it a milestone in the nation’s technological journey.
“This partnership opens a new chapter in Pakistan-China scientific cooperation. Quantum technology represents the future, and collaboration with China in this domain will be a game changer for Pakistan,” he stated.
He also announced the launch of the Quantum Valley Project under the government’s ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative. The project aims to develop Pakistan’s own “Silicon Valley”, a hub for innovation, digital transformation, and knowledge-based growth.
Ahsan Iqbal stressed that quantum computing and AI form the backbone of modern economies. He said investing in emerging technologies is vital for achieving sustainable progress. “Nations leading in innovation and research are the ones shaping the global economy. Pakistan must join that league,” he added.
He noted that technological cooperation is a key pillar of CPEC Phase-II, which focuses on industrial modernisation, human resource development, and digital integration. Moreover, he emphasised that leveraging China’s expertise in frontier technologies would help Pakistan transition toward a knowledge-driven economy.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening long-term collaboration and advancing research and innovation to support Pakistan’s technological and economic transformation.
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