The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) confirmed that Pakistan is taking a gradual and inclusive approach to regulating artificial intelligence (AI). The focus is on building a strong AI ecosystem first, before introducing strict laws.
This news comes just before the Senate Standing Committee on IT & Telecom meets today. They are reviewing the “Regulation of Artificial Intelligence Bill, 2024,” introduced by Senator Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan. The bill aims to create a legal framework for using and managing AI in the country.
In a briefing to the Committee, the government said AI has great potential for growth, innovation, and national progress. But it also has risks, like data theft, biased algorithms, and ethical questions.
The MoITT pointed out that over 50 countries have some form of national AI strategy. Still, fewer than 10 have written laws that directly control AI. Pakistan plans to follow that pattern. The first step is to build a solid AI system that covers data rules, data safety, infrastructure, and partnerships between industry and universities.
National AI Plan in Progress
Leadership for AI rules comes from the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives (MoPDSI) and MoITT. MoPDSI has put together an AI Taskforce with representatives from government, universities, and businesses. The task force is working on a National AI Plan to boost AI growth in various sectors.
At the same time, MoITT has formed its own AI Policy Committee. This group is working to draft the National AI Policy. It is meant to guide Pakistan’s AI future, along with the broader National AI Plan from MoPDSI.
Pakistan AI Policy: Provinces Included in Policy Drafting
The government has made sure that the process includes voices from all provinces. Both federal ministers stressed the importance of collecting opinions from every part of the country to make a strong, national plan.
There is a shared view among the taskforce, policy group, and other stakeholders: Pakistan should build a good environment for AI innovation first. Only then should it think about strict rules.
Regulation Will Follow Ecosystem Maturity
The “Regulation of AI Act, 2024,” looks to set rules for how AI is used. But officials say that rushing into laws too early could slow down progress. The current draft of the AI policy is under review. It will focus on key issues like data access, ethics, and governance.
This approach reflects what many countries are doing. They are first working on building AI skills and infrastructure. Once that is in place, they create balanced rules to protect citizens while encouraging growth.
The AI policy and National AI Plan are expected to be ready soon. Once the basics are set, Pakistan can start introducing regulations that keep people safe without stopping innovation.
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