Pakistan and China have formally launched a new era of scientific collaboration, signing a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at advancing joint research and innovation in cutting-edge technologies, with a strong focus on quantum computing.
High-Level Meeting in Islamabad
The agreement was signed in Islamabad during a high-level meeting between Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, and a visiting delegation from the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC)—a major state-owned tech enterprise from China. This MoU establishes a structured partnership between CETC and Pakistan’s Emerging Technologies Lab, a key initiative funded under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
National Center for Quantum Computing in the Works
At the signing ceremony, Minister Iqbal emphasized that China’s support would be instrumental in establishing Pakistan’s first National Center for Quantum Computing. He described the move as a pivotal step toward embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, highlighting its potential to reshape Pakistan’s scientific and economic landscape. The collaboration is expected to foster knowledge sharing, joint research efforts, and the cultivation of advanced technical expertise within Pakistan.
Uraan Pakistan and the Quantum Frontier
“Quantum technology is the frontier of tomorrow,” Iqbal stated. “Our alliance with China in this domain will be transformative for Pakistan’s future in science and innovation.”
The minister also elaborated on the government’s broader vision under the ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative, which seeks to embed emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and quantum computing—into the country’s development strategy. He stressed that investing in these areas is crucial for Pakistan’s ambition to join the ranks of technologically advanced nations.
Quantum Valley and CPEC Phase-II
In addition, Iqbal unveiled plans for the Quantum Valley Project, envisioned as Pakistan’s version of Silicon Valley—a vibrant ecosystem for tech startups, research institutions, and industrial innovation. He praised China’s achievements in digital transformation and noted that this partnership reflects a deeper technological dimension of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Phase-II, which now emphasizes industrial modernization and digital growth.
Shared Vision for Innovation and Development
Both parties reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral scientific ties, expanding academic cooperation, and driving innovation-led development aligned with Pakistan’s Vision 2025 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
Stay updated with verified reports, impactful headlines, and real-time coverage. We bring you trusted news from across Pakistan and beyond. For full stories, in-depth analysis, and exclusive updates, follow or visit our website. Your source for credible journalism, national resilience, and the voices that matter most—delivered with clarity, urgency, and integrity.
For climate-related stories, visit: The Green Post
