Copyright protected content copied from PhoneWorld website.
Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja has said that Pakistan must establish strong digital infrastructure before expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI). Shaza Fatima shared these views during a discussion on digital public infrastructure and AI at the Global AI and Digital Summit 2026 in South Korea.
Speaking on the third day of the summit, Shaza Fatima explained that AI represents the final layer of digital development. She stressed that countries need reliable digital systems, secure data-sharing mechanisms, and effective public services to make the best use of AI.
Shaza Fatima Highlights Pakistan’s Digital Transformation at Digital Summit 2026 in South Korea
The minister highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to build its national digital public infrastructure. Under a World Bank initiative to support the development of the digital economy, Pakistan is working to establish its first national digital public infrastructure system.
She said the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) provides verified digital identity services to more than 10 million Pakistanis. This identity system serves as an important foundation for delivering digital public services.
The minister also highlighted Raast, the State Bank of Pakistan’s instant payment system, which enables digital payments across the country. She said such systems are essential for improving access to financial services and supporting the growth of the digital economy.
Shaza Fatima also discussed Wasil, Pakistan’s national data exchange system. The platform enables government institutions to share information securely under clear rules and procedures. It aims to improve coordination between public sector organizations and make digital services more efficient.
According to the minister, work is also underway to develop a central mobile application for citizens and a national open data system on top of Wasil. These initiatives are expected to make public information and government services more accessible.
She further noted that the Pakistan Digital Authority has issued a National Data Governance Policy to establish a clear framework for managing and sharing data. The policy is intended to promote responsible data use and provide clear rules for digital governance.
See Also: Pakistan Highlights Sovereign AI Vision at Global AI and Digital Summit 2026 in Seoul
The minister emphasized that Pakistan’s approach to AI would keep human decision-making at the center. She said AI would assist people in making decisions but would not independently determine anyone’s rights or entitlements.
This approach aims to ensure that AI supports public services without replacing human judgment in decisions that directly affect citizens.
Pakistan is also working to develop sovereign AI infrastructure and Buraq, a Pakistani language model designed to support the Urdu language. These efforts could help the country build local AI capabilities and develop technology that better serves its linguistic and digital needs.
The Global AI and Digital Summit 2026 provides a platform for countries to discuss the future of AI, digital governance, and public digital infrastructure. Pakistan’s participation reflects its efforts to strengthen digital public services, improve data management, and build the foundations needed for wider AI adoption.
The post Shaza Fatima Highlights Pakistan’s Digital Transformation at Digital Summit 2026 in South Korea appeared first on PhoneWorld.