Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister at the Ministry of Planning, announced a collaboration this week between Pakistan and the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC). The partnership, formalized through a memorandum of understanding, will strengthen research and innovation in quantum technologies. This agreement aims to establish the National Centre for Quantum Computing in Pakistan, marking a significant step in the country’s technological advancement. Iqbal highlighted that this collaboration represents a new chapter in Pakistan-China scientific relations and will be a game changer for Pakistan’s future economy.
“Quantum technology represents the future, and cooperation with China in this domain will be a game changer for Pakistan”
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal
Pakistan and China Forge Quantum Computing Partnership
Pakistan and China solidified their commitment to quantum technology collaboration this week with the signing of a memorandum of understanding. A high-level delegation from the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) met with Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal to discuss avenues for cooperation in advanced technologies. This agreement aims to strengthen research, development, and innovation within the domain of quantum technologies, fostering joint initiatives and knowledge exchange.
The signed MoU between CETC and the Emerging Technologies Lab, a project funded by Pakistan’s Ministry of Planning, will focus on establishing the National Centre for Quantum Computing. According to Ahsan Iqbal, China will assist Pakistan in this crucial step towards technological advancement. This collaboration represents a new chapter in Pakistan-China scientific relations, building on existing ties within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that quantum computing and artificial intelligence are foundational to modern economies, and investments in these areas are key to national development. He announced the “Quantum Valley Project,” envisioned as Pakistan’s equivalent of Silicon Valley, a hub for innovation and knowledge-based growth. Leveraging China’s experience in modern technology will be transformative for Pakistan, according to the minister, and technological cooperation remains a vital pillar of CPEC Phase-II.
Quantum Technologies Drive Pakistan-China Innovation Corridor
Building on this strengthened partnership, the collaboration extends beyond basic research to encompass the development of the Quantum Valley Project, envisioned as Pakistan’s equivalent of Silicon Valley. According to Ahsan Iqbal, this initiative will focus on innovation, technology, and knowledge-based development, positioning Pakistan as a regional hub for quantum technologies. This project is a core component of the government’s strategy to modernize the economy and foster technological advancement.
“We are initiating the Quantum Valley Project, which will become Pakistan’s own Silicon Valley — a hub for innovation, technology, and knowledge-based development”
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal
The agreement between CETC and the Emerging Technologies Lab, a project funded by the Ministry of Planning, signifies a commitment to joint initiatives and capacity building. Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that leveraging China’s experience in modern technology presents a transformative opportunity for Pakistan, particularly within the framework of CPEC Phase-II. This phase prioritizes industrial modernization, digital transformation, and crucial human resource development initiatives.
This technological cooperation is viewed as a vital pillar under CPEC Phase-II, demonstrating a commitment to long-term partnerships. Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to deepening bilateral cooperation, contributing to national development and fostering innovation. Ahsan Iqbal noted that investments in emerging technologies like quantum computing and artificial intelligence are key to joining the ranks of developed nations.
This partnership between the China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC) and Pakistan’s Emerging Technologies Lab signals a focused intent to build national quantum capabilities. Establishing the National Centre for Quantum Computing, with assistance from CETC, could enable advancements in areas demanding high computational power, such as materials science and complex modeling.
The implications extend beyond purely scientific research; for Pakistan, this collaboration represents a strategic step towards technological independence and innovation within the broader Pakistan-China innovation corridor. By prioritizing quantum technologies alongside artificial intelligence, the government aims to position the nation at the forefront of these transformative fields, potentially unlocking new economic and security benefits.
