Pakistan and China Expand Digital Cooperation with Annual Tech Skills Program
Pakistan's digital transformation is set to gain further momentum as China will provide digital skills training to 300,000 Pakistani youths annually, a major initiative aimed at strengthening the country's technology sector, expanding the knowledge economy and preparing young professionals for global opportunities.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal announced the initiative while addressing the 3rd Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) IT Freelancing Awards 2026. Speaking alongside LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol, the minister said the collaboration reflects the growing technological partnership between Pakistan and China and will play a significant role in enhancing the country's digital capabilities.
Ahsan Iqbal noted that Pakistan has emerged as the fourth-largest freelancing country in the world, with its young workforce making valuable contributions to the digital economy while generating foreign exchange through services provided to international clients. He emphasized that today's economy is increasingly driven by knowledge, innovation and technology rather than traditional business models that rely on large offices or significant capital investment.
He said Pakistan's youth have consistently demonstrated their talent and competitiveness in global digital markets, and the new training program will further enhance their technical expertise, opening more opportunities in freelancing, software development, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol encouraged freelancers and IT professionals to continuously upgrade their skills in artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies to remain competitive in an evolving global marketplace. He said innovation, information technology and the digital economy form the foundation of the "Uraan Pakistan" vision, with freelancers playing a central role in turning that vision into reality.
Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman praised the Lahore Chamber's efforts to recognize the achievements of Pakistani freelancers, describing freelancing as a vital pillar of the national digital economy. He said freelancers contribute millions of dollars in foreign exchange every year while serving as digital ambassadors who promote Pakistan's positive image across international markets.
The finance minister added that the Punjab Government is working closely with the federal government and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to improve internationally accepted payment systems and strengthen the country's digital financial ecosystem. The objective, he said, is to ensure freelancers receive payments through secure, efficient and convenient channels.
He further highlighted ongoing investments in digital infrastructure, technology parks, IT zones, innovation centers and entrepreneurship initiatives across Punjab. These projects are expected to generate new employment opportunities while supporting the growth of startups and technology-driven businesses.
According to the minister, Punjab has also become the first province to launch large-scale artificial intelligence initiatives, with the goal of establishing itself as Pakistan's leading hub for AI, innovation and digital entrepreneurship. He emphasized that the government's long-term vision extends beyond producing successful freelancers to developing AI specialists, startup founders and globally competitive technology leaders capable of driving Pakistan's digital future.
The annual digital skills training initiative with China represents another important step in strengthening bilateral cooperation while equipping Pakistan's youth with the expertise needed to compete in the rapidly evolving global digital economy.