KEY POINTS
- Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agreed to boost cooperation in AI, digital infrastructure, and talent development.
- IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja met GO Telecom CEO Yahya bin Saleh Al Mansour in Riyadh.
- GO Telecommunications announced plans to establish GO AI Hub Pakistan by October 2025.
- The Hub will promote knowledge transfer, capacity building, and co-creation of digital solutions.
- Future collaboration areas include data centre development and technical talent training.
- IT Minister Khawaja praises Saudi innovation in emerging technologies.
ISLAMABAD/RIYADH: Pakistan’s Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, met Yahya bin Saleh Al Mansour, Chief Executive Officer of GO Telecommunications Group, in Riyadh to discuss expanding cooperation in digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), and human capital development, Pakistan’s IT Ministry said on Saturday.
During her visit to the company’s headquarters, Khawaja was received by the GO Telecommunications leadership.
During the meeting, both sides explored opportunities to strengthen collaboration in strategic technology sectors, including AI innovation, digital connectivity, and skills development to support Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
As part of the engagement, GO Telecommunications Group announced the establishment of GO AI Hub Pakistan, a specialised centre dedicated to AI technologies and innovative digital applications, according to a news release.
The initiative aims to promote knowledge transfer, capacity building, and the co-creation of digital solutions between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
The official launch of the Hub is planned for October 2025, with participation from senior government and industry leaders from both countries.
The meeting also highlighted future collaborations, such as digital infrastructure expansion, data centre development, and the establishment of a technical talent development centre in Pakistan, reflecting the shared vision to enhance regional digital connectivity and innovation.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja appreciated the technological excellence and forward-looking approach of GO Telecommunications Group in AI, data centres, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Minister Khawaja also highlighted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s “Digital Nation Vision Pakistan.”
“Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share a deep and evolving partnership rooted in mutual growth and digital progress,” said Minister Khawaja.
“Through initiatives like GO AI Hub Pakistan, we aim to strengthen collaboration in emerging technologies, empower youth through digital skills, and accelerate our shared vision of a connected, knowledge-driven future,” She added.
Yahya bin Saleh Al Mansour, CEO of GO Telecommunications Group, said, “We were honoured to host Shaza Fatima Khawaja. Our discussions underscored the strong potential for cooperation between the Kingdom and Pakistan. The Group’s expansion into the Pakistani market aligns with our strategic vision of diversification and strengthening partnerships with friendly and brotherly nations.”
