Pakistan became a founding member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization (WAICO) on Thursday, marking a new step in its engagement with global artificial intelligence governance.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar signed the founding agreement on Pakistan’s behalf during WAICO’s inaugural ceremony in Shanghai. Twenty-nine countries signed the agreement establishing the new intergovernmental body, according to Reuters.
China says WAICO will promote international cooperation, improve artificial intelligence governance and help countries share the benefits of emerging technologies.
Dar Signs WAICO Founding Agreement
Dar arrived in Shanghai for a two-day official visit from July 16 to 17. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi invited him to attend the organisation’s launch and related high-level meetings.
The Foreign Office confirmed that Dar would sign the agreement as a founding member and represent Pakistan at the organisation’s inaugural events.
Ali Dar announced the development on X, writing: “Pakistan becomes a Founding Member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation.”
China first proposed WAICO during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai in July 2025. Beijing presented the organisation as a platform for innovation, inclusive development and coordinated governance.
The initiative also seeks to narrow the technological gap between developed and developing countries. Researchers say its development-focused approach could give Global South nations a larger voice in setting international AI priorities.
Pakistan to Present AI Governance Position
Dar will attend the opening ceremony of the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference on July 17. He will also participate in the High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance.
The conference will run in Shanghai from July 17 to 20 under the theme “Intelligent Partners, Co-create the Future.” Chinese President Xi Jinping will address the opening ceremony and outline Beijing’s position on AI development and governance.
Pakistan becomes a Founding Member of the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation 🇵🇰 🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/HLspK2KgzC
— Ali Dar (@alimdar82) July 16, 2026
Dar is expected to present Pakistan’s perspective on responsible technological development and stronger international collaboration. Discussions will focus on global AI governance, capacity building and wider access to new technologies.
On the sidelines, Dar will hold bilateral talks with Wang Yi. He will also meet senior representatives from participating countries to explore cooperation in artificial intelligence, innovation and digital transformation.
Membership Supports Pakistan’s Digital Strategy
Pakistan’s founding membership comes as Islamabad expands its national artificial intelligence agenda.
The federal cabinet approved the National Artificial Intelligence Policy in July 2025. The policy aims to promote innovation, ethical AI development and economic growth while building a knowledge-based economy.
The government has also committed $1 billion to AI development by 2030. Planned investments include sovereign computing infrastructure, research, education and local technology projects.
Officials believe WAICO membership can help Pakistan secure technical partnerships, strengthen local expertise and participate in shaping international AI standards.
The move could also add a major technology-focused dimension to Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China. The Foreign Office said Dar’s visit reflects Islamabad’s commitment to international cooperation in emerging technologies.
