Ishaq Dar returns after China visit, signs global AI cooperation agreement

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar returned to Pakistan on Saturday after concluding a two-day official visit to China, where he reaffirmed Islamabad’s commitment to strengthening international cooperation in artificial intelligence.

During the visit, Dar held talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and signed the agreement establishing the World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organisation (WAICO).

The agreement reflects Pakistan’s commitment to promoting global collaboration in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

Upon his arrival in the country, the DPM also held a meeting to review preparations for the 53rd meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI).  

During the meeting, he reviewed in detail all the arrangements and the agenda for the upcoming CCI session. The committee recommended convening the next meeting of the CCI in August 2026.

Ishaq Dar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further strengthening the cooperative federal system and improving coordination between the federal and provincial governments.

“Effective communication and coordination between the Centre and provinces remain the government’s top priority,” the DPM said.

He stressed that cooperation between the federation and provinces is essential for making timely decisions in the national interest.

The meeting also discussed the agenda of the upcoming CCI session and important national matters. Dar said the government would continue promoting effective institutional cooperation to ensure greater federal harmony.