ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Pakistan called for inclusive, human-centered, and equitable artificial intelligence governance at a high-level discussion held at the United Nations Headquarters on Thursday, jointly organised by the Permanent Missions of Pakistan and Tajikistan and the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme. The event brought together diplomats, UN officials, technology experts, academics, and youth representatives to explore how AI can advance sustainable development through innovation, inclusion, and resilience while ensuring that no country or community is left behind.

Global Challenges and Digital Divide

Speakers warned that unequal access to digital infrastructure, financing, technology, and skilled human resources could widen existing global inequalities, particularly for developing countries. They stressed that AI must become a tool for shared progress by expanding access to technology, investing in capacity building, and placing young people at the centre of sustainable development efforts. This global discourse aligns with broader Pakistan-led initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive development across international forums.

Pakistan’s Strategic Commitment to Youth and Technology

Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to prepare its youth for an AI-powered future. He stated that the government has allocated Rs 40.58 billion to the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme for 2026-27, reflecting its commitment to building a skilled and digitally empowered generation. Highlighting the tangible results of such programs, he noted that more than 600,000 laptops have been distributed, while 73,000 young people have received training in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data science. Furthermore, more than 217,000 technical skills scholarships have been awarded across 8,000 courses. He added that the Digital Youth Hub has registered over 804,000 users, created access to 114,000 employment opportunities, and partnered with more than 3,180 organisations. Mashhood stated that Pakistan’s National Artificial Intelligence Policy aims to train one million AI professionals and 10,000 AI trainers by 2030 while expanding AI education, research, and innovation across the country. He called for stronger international cooperation to bridge the global AI divide.

Regional Cooperation and Future Governance

Tajikistan’s Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Abdurahmon Abdurahmonzoda, highlighted his country’s leadership in the field of artificial intelligence. He noted that Tajikistan has adopted Central Asia’s first National Artificial Intelligence Strategy until 2040 and established the Regional Artificial Intelligence Centre. The discussion featured Jennifer Louie of the United Nations Development Programme, Google AI expert Hashim Syed, and Youth Delegate Bisma Qamar. The panel stressed that AI governance frameworks must evolve alongside technological advances. Participants underscored that young people must be recognised as innovators and decision-makers, a sentiment that resonates with ongoing efforts to foster economic reform through international collaboration. In his closing remarks, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, emphasised that humanity must shape the future of AI. He outlined four priorities: bridging the AI divide, ensuring equitable development, empowering youth, and promoting ethical, transparent, and safe AI systems.