CPEC 2.0 Drives Pakistan Toward a Tech-Led Economic Future
Pakistan is intensifying efforts to establish itself as a regional centre for digital innovation and technology-driven economic growth as the country moves toward a more advanced phase of development under CPEC 2.0.
The vision was outlined by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar during the launch ceremony of the IBI Pakistan Digital Economy Headquarters in Islamabad. According to the Foreign Office, the government aims to strengthen Pakistan’s position in the global digital economy by promoting investment in information technology, digital services, and innovation-focused industries.
Addressing the event, Dar stated that Pakistan’s digital economy is expanding at a rapid pace and creating new opportunities for foreign investors, technology firms, and international partnerships. He noted that the country’s growing IT sector, combined with a young and increasingly skilled workforce, provides a strong foundation for long-term digital transformation and economic competitiveness.
The deputy prime minister linked Pakistan’s digital ambitions to the evolving framework of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under CPEC 2.0. He explained that the initiative is now moving beyond conventional infrastructure development toward intelligent infrastructure that integrates artificial intelligence, ICT systems, smart technologies, and digital connectivity networks.
According to Dar, this transition represents a significant shift in the direction of economic cooperation between Pakistan and China, focusing more on innovation, advanced technology, and knowledge-based development. He added that emerging technologies will play a vital role in strengthening regional connectivity, improving productivity, and supporting sustainable economic growth.
Highlighting Pakistan’s demographic advantages, Dar said the country’s large youth population and expanding technology talent pool position it competitively within the regional digital landscape. He emphasized that investment in digital infrastructure and innovation ecosystems could unlock new economic opportunities and accelerate modernization across multiple sectors.
The foreign minister also reaffirmed the importance of the Pakistan-China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership, describing it as a long-standing relationship that is now entering a deeper phase of digital and economic integration. He said collaboration in technology and innovation sectors would continue to strengthen bilateral ties while supporting broader regional development goals.
Dar further noted that the establishment of the IBI Pakistan Digital Economy Headquarters reflects growing international confidence in Pakistan’s digital potential and its capacity to serve as a platform for technological advancement and innovation-led growth.
He added that enhancing cooperation in emerging technologies, digital systems, and smart infrastructure would remain essential for sustaining economic progress and positioning Pakistan as a leading technology and connectivity hub in the region.