PM Shehbaz Sharif Says Robotics and AI Will Drive Pakistan’s Future Economy and Security

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems Expo 2026 marks a significant step towards positioning Pakistan among the world’s leading technology-driven nations. Addressing the expo, he said robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and drone technology would strengthen the country’s economy, enhance national security, and improve the quality of life for citizens. He noted that Pakistan had also hosted the Indus AI Summit earlier this year, reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting emerging technologies.

The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s progress in the technology sector, stating that the country has achieved more than 60 percent local production of drones. He said the armed forces had effectively integrated advanced technologies under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, including the use of autonomous systems and cybersecurity capabilities to safeguard the country’s borders during recent security operations. He added that the government would continue investing in cutting-edge defense technologies and introduce a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework to support the development of autonomous capabilities.

Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said Pakistan is moving towards becoming a complete value-chain hub for robotics and artificial intelligence under the prime minister’s digital transformation agenda. She announced that the AI-powered Prime Minister’s Office system had been inaugurated to modernize governance, adding that government investment in digital infrastructure and skills had contributed to a nearly 21 percent increase in ICT exports. She also said Pakistan had improved by 14 places in the E-Government Development Index, reflecting continued progress in digital governance and technological innovation.