Pakistan, Saudi Arabia to collaborate on emerging technologies

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have reached an understanding to strengthen joint work on artificial intelligence, data governance and other new technologies, according to Mettis Global. The agreement emerged from talks between Information Technology and Telecommunication Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Abdullah bin Sharaf Alghamdi, who heads the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, SDAIA. The talks were held at LEAP 2026, a technology event in Riyadh.

Khawaja briefed the SDAIA president on Pakistan's continuing work to build a national AI and data governance programme, stressing the need for sturdy regulatory frameworks. She said the country remains committed to creating a robust data environment and strengthening its digital economy. According to the press release, she presented the meeting as a step in widening Pakistan's role in AI and emerging technologies worldwide.

LEAP has become a leading global technology gathering that draws tech firms, startups, investors, officials and policymakers. For Pakistani companies, the event provides a chance to present their abilities, meet prospective buyers and backers, and seek technology export contracts. The move comes as Pakistan looks to widen sales of its information technology and digital services abroad and raise its international presence in the technology sector.