Islamabad AI Declaration unveiled at Indus AI Week 2026

ISLAMABAD (APP) - Pakistan has taken what officials described as a decisive step toward shaping a sovereign and responsible Artificial Intelligence (AI) future by unveiling the Islamabad AI Declaration during the two-day Indus AI Week 2026.

The declaration outlines a principled national framework centred on public value, trusted data stewardship, accountable systems and global leadership in responsible AI development.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to a sovereign and inclusive AI model — led by the private sector and enabled by the state — aimed at advancing a Digital Society, Digital Economy and Digital Governance framework.

The policy emphasises that AI adoption is a sovereign national choice designed to enhance productivity, improve governance and deliver measurable public outcomes. Under the declaration, AI applications will serve constitutional objectives and national development priorities rather than symbolic or externally dependent models.

Authorities stressed that artificial intelligence will augment human capacity rather than replace lawful authority. Decisions affecting citizens will remain under accountable human oversight, supported by due process and institutional responsibility.

Pakistan has adopted a pragmatic “use-case-first” approach, under which AI technologies will be deployed where they demonstrably improve economic productivity, service delivery, operational efficiency and decision-making. Expansion will follow verified and measurable impact.

The declaration underscores data sovereignty as a central pillar, stating that national, state and citizen data will remain governed under Pakistan’s laws and sovereign interests. Trusted data stewardship and secure exchange mechanisms will safeguard privacy, security, public trust and citizens’ dignity.

AI systems deployed within government — particularly those affecting public rights or critical state functions — must be explainable, auditable and proportionate to risk. Built-in data provenance and assurance mechanisms will ensure transparency and accountability.

To prevent institutional fragmentation and vendor dependency, AI governance will be coordinated at the national level, with clearly defined roles across federal and provincial systems.

The framework highlights sustained investment in education, research and institutional capacity as the foundation of AI sovereignty. The government pledged to promote national talent development, support responsible innovation through controlled environments and ensure AI adoption helps narrow social divides rather than widen them.

Pakistan also aims to build a competitive, private-sector-led AI economy supported by sovereign computing capacity and resilient digital infrastructure. Policy measures will seek to stimulate innovation, attract investment and generate employment.

At the international level, Pakistan signalled its intention to pursue principled partnerships that promote interoperable standards and ethical AI norms.

At the same time, ensuring cooperation remains aligned with constitutional principles and national interests.

The Islamabad AI Declaration marks a significant policy milestone as the country positions itself to harness artificial intelligence for inclusive growth, governance reform and long-term digital transformation.