ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said the National Technology Park will help advance information technology (IT) and artificial intelligence (AI) in Pakistan, equip young people with modern skills and support the country’s economic development.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister said the project would create opportunities for millions of young people, particularly women, to develop their skills and pursue careers in technology.

He said the facility would support incubation centres, innovation, young entrepreneurs, students and teachers. By gaining expertise in advanced technologies, young Pakistanis could contribute to economic growth and help the country compete internationally.

Technology Parks Planned for All Provinces

Shehbaz Sharif said the successful operation of the National Technology Park could pave the way for similar facilities in all four provinces.

He highlighted the potential of IT and AI across several sectors, including agriculture, industry, manufacturing, minerals and government services. He said adopting modern technologies could improve productivity and create new opportunities for businesses and skilled workers.

Prime Minister Calls for Timely Project Completion

The prime minister said work on the project began in 2017 and 2018 but later faced delays. He stressed that the priority was to complete the initiative and make its facilities available to young people without further delay.

He appreciated the efforts of the project team, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Information Technology and other officials involved in advancing the initiative.

Shehbaz Sharif said he had personally reviewed the project’s progress in several meetings to help ensure its timely completion and enable young people to benefit from the facility.

Shehbaz Highlights South Korea’s Development

During his address, the prime minister recalled his longstanding ties with South Korea, saying he first visited the country in 1985 and returned in 1997 and 1998.

He praised South Korea’s economic progress and workforce, saying Pakistan could also achieve development milestones by embracing modern technologies and strengthening the professional skills of its young people.

He emphasised that investment in technology and skills development would be important for Pakistan’s efforts to expand economic opportunities and prepare its workforce for the future.