Pakistan is set to become a founding member of the China-led World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO), with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar visiting Shanghai to sign the membership agreement during a two-day official trip.
Read More: Pakistan, China push forward next CPEC phase
According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, Dar will also attend the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) 2026, where global leaders, policymakers and technology experts are expected to discuss the future of artificial intelligence and international cooperation. During the visit, he will hold bilateral meetings with Chinese officials and other international representatives to strengthen collaboration in emerging technologies.
The Foreign Office said Pakistan would use the platform to highlight the importance of inclusive and equitable AI governance, while advocating for greater access to artificial intelligence technologies for developing countries. Islamabad also plans to emphasise capacity building, technology transfer and reducing the global AI divide so that AI can contribute to sustainable development and shared prosperity.
China first proposed the establishment of WAICO in 2025 as part of its broader vision for global AI governance. Pakistan had already expressed support for the initiative during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to China earlier this year, pledging to work closely with Beijing on advancing international AI cooperation.
This year’s WAIC is expected to showcase China’s latest technological advancements, including Huawei’s new Atlas 950 SuperPoD AI computing system and several domestically developed AI models designed to reduce reliance on foreign technology.
Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to deliver a keynote address outlining Beijing’s vision for global AI governance, while the conference will also host senior international leaders, academics and industry experts. Discussions are likely to focus on balancing innovation with responsible AI development, expanding access to emerging technologies and establishing international standards for artificial intelligence.
Read More: Chinese firm to establish digital economy headquarters in Pakistan
Pakistan’s founding membership of WAICO reflects its growing interest in digital transformation and signals a commitment to participating in global discussions on the future development, governance and responsible use of artificial intelligence.