Pakistan is on the verge of a digital revolution, with the government preparing to launch its first-ever artificial intelligence (AI) policy in early 2025. This groundbreaking initiative aims to bolster the country’s cybersecurity and digital economy, positioning Pakistan as a key player in the global tech landscape. The upcoming AI policy promises to address pressing issues like cyber threats and data theft, while also focusing on the promotion of the digital economy to ensure sustainable economic growth in the future.
Strengthening Cybersecurity with AI
One of the primary objectives of the AI policy is to enhance Pakistan’s cybersecurity infrastructure. As cyber threats continue to evolve, it becomes increasingly crucial for countries to adopt cutting-edge technologies to defend against these risks. Artificial intelligence has proven to be a powerful tool in identifying and mitigating cyber threats swiftly and accurately. By incorporating AI into its cybersecurity strategy, Pakistan will be able to detect and respond to cyber incidents in real-time, minimizing damage and ensuring the safety of its digital assets.
According to Syed Junaid Imam, Member of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom, Pakistan is working diligently on finalizing the AI policy. “Special focus is being given to artificial intelligence in the policy, as digital economy is the future of Pakistan,” Imam stated at the Cyber Threat Intelligence 2024 conference. The policy’s emphasis on AI-driven cybersecurity will undoubtedly position the country to defend against increasingly sophisticated cyber-attacks, which target everything from military infrastructures to educational institutions.
Advancing the Digital Economy
Another core component of the AI policy is the goal to transform Pakistan into a digital economy. In today’s fast-paced world, countries that embrace digital technologies reap the benefits of faster economic growth and more efficient business practices. The government’s AI policy is designed to make Pakistan more competitive in the global economy by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the tech sector. This will not only boost the economy but also provide employment opportunities in the tech industry, positioning Pakistan as a hub for digital talent.
Asad Effendi, Founder and CEO of Secure Network, highlighted the importance of AI in accelerating Pakistan’s digital transformation. “Artificial intelligence will help in quickly detecting and responding to cyber threats,” he said. The integration of AI into business operations, public services, and government functions will make processes more efficient, secure, and accessible, making Pakistan’s digital infrastructure a model for the region.
The Need for a National Cybersecurity Forum
While Pakistan is making strides in its AI policy development, it’s crucial to learn from the experiences of neighboring countries. Former Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Ammar Jafri, pointed out that Bangladesh has paid a heavy price for not establishing a national forum to address cybersecurity threats. Jafri stressed the importance of creating a centralized body to manage and coordinate cybersecurity efforts across the country. The AI policy could be the starting point for building such a forum in Pakistan, enabling better cooperation between government agencies, private organizations, and international cybersecurity experts.
Addressing Increasing Cyber Threats
The rise in cyberattacks has put several critical sectors in Pakistan at risk. Igor Stolyarov, Technical Sales and Business Manager at IB Group, warned that hackers have increasingly targeted key infrastructure, including education, communication, military, and government sectors. As cyber threats evolve, it is essential for Pakistan to stay one step ahead, utilizing advanced technologies like AI to detect and mitigate potential attacks.
Haytham Nasr, a Cybersecurity Specialist at CISCO, also pointed out the alarming trend of hackers exploiting long-forgotten accounts to carry out malicious activities. This highlights the need for improved monitoring and AI-powered systems that can flag suspicious activities and prevent attacks before they escalate.
A Brighter Future for Pakistan
With the AI policy in its final stages, Pakistan is poised to take a significant leap towards securing its digital future. By embracing AI, the government will not only enhance cybersecurity capabilities but also lay the foundation for a thriving digital economy. As the policy is presented in early 2025, it marks a critical step in ensuring that Pakistan remains safe, competitive, and ready for the challenges of the digital age. Through these efforts, Pakistan could soon be ranked among the top 10 to 15 countries in the world for cybersecurity, joining a global community committed to technological advancement and digital prosperity.
Pakistan’s upcoming AI policy is more than just a technological blueprint; it is a pathway to a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future. With AI at the helm, the country is on its way to becoming a digital powerhouse.
