Punjab is seeking to strengthen its IT and artificial intelligence (AI) sector through greater cooperation with Chinese technology companies. During her visit to China, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz met a senior delegation from Alibaba Cloud, which expressed keen interest in investment and collaboration opportunities in Punjab’s growing technology sector.
According to an official press release, Alibaba Cloud officials appreciated Punjab’s AI-based governance initiatives and discussed potential cooperation in deploying artificial intelligence across key public-sector areas.
The meeting explored the use of AI in agriculture, healthcare, socio-economic programmes and climate forecasting, along with the possibility of establishing a strategic partnership to integrate AI into public services.
Maryam Nawaz said Punjab was actively integrating artificial intelligence into its governance system and pursuing the adoption of emerging technologies to improve public services. She highlighted the province’s AI policy and efforts to introduce AI education in government schools.
The chief minister also said Punjab has a large pool of young and skilled workers and is emerging as a leader in the digital economy. She noted that government officials and provincial cabinet members have also received AI training.
Alibaba Cloud Senior Vice President Li Jiaping briefed the chief minister on the company’s operations, while discussions also covered potential opportunities for small and medium enterprises and overseas Pakistanis.
The proposed cooperation could create new opportunities for technology investment, AI innovation and digital transformation in Punjab, strengthening ties between Pakistan and Chinese technology companies.
