The Ministry of IT and Telecom has announced that Pakistan will soon launch its first AI policy, with a primary objective of enhancing cybersecurity. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening digital infrastructure and promoting a secure digital economy.
Speaking at the ‘Cyber Threat Intelligence 2024’ conference, Syed Junaid Imam, Member IT, Ministry of Information Technology and Telecom, highlighted the importance of AI in ensuring cybersecurity and driving Pakistan’s digital transformation.
“Probably in a couple of month’s time, you will see Pakistan’s first AI policy,” said Imam. “There is special focus on AI for cybersecurity. There is a realization that AI is important for ensuring cyberspace.”
He noted Pakistan’s recent improvement in the Global Cybersecurity Index (GCI) ranking, moving to Tier-1 and positioning among the top 40 countries. However, he emphasized that there is still much progress to be made.
“We cannot take Pakistan on the path of digital economy if we do not ensure cybersecurity,” Imam stressed. “There is realization that the digital economy is the future of Pakistan. If we want Pakistan to take on the road of economic growth and prosperity, we have to ensure the digital transformation of the country.”
The government is actively working to establish sectoral CERTs (Computer/Cyber Emergency Response Teams) in various sectors, including telecom, banking, and education, as well as provincial government CERTs. These CERTs will play a crucial role in sharing threat intelligence and coordinating cybersecurity efforts across the country.
Collaboration among stakeholders, including industry, the private sector, academia, and the government, is seen as key to achieving cybersecurity goals and driving digital transformation in Pakistan.
Asad Effendi, Founder & CEO of Secure Networks, highlighted the role of AI in real-time threat detection and data protection, emphasizing its importance in strengthening cybersecurity measures.
This new AI policy signals Pakistan’s commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to enhance cybersecurity and foster a secure and thriving digital economy.