Islamabad: The government announced plans to set up new centers of excellence focusing on artificial intelligence, cyber security, and industrial development, according to Ahsan Iqbal, the Minister for Planning and Development. The initiative aims to enhance the country’s ability to meet the challenges posed by the industrial revolution.

According to Radio Pakistan, Ahsan Iqbal outlined the government’s intention to establish several national centers, including the National Center for Quantum Computing, the National Center for Nanotechnology, and the National Center for New Manufacturing within the year. These centers are expected to play a crucial role in advancing technological capabilities and ensuring national security.

In his address at a ceremony in Islamabad, Iqbal highlighted the accomplishments of his party’s government prior to the 2018 general elections. He noted that the PML-N government had previously established various centers, such as the National Center for Artificial Intelligence at NUST Islamabad and the National Center for Cyber Security at Air University Islamabad, among others. These initiatives were undertaken during 2016 and 2017 when technologies like AI, robotics, and cyber security were not widely recognized.

Furthermore, Iqbal emphasized the importance of geospatial capability, describing it as an essential component of national security rather than merely a scientific discipline. He pointed out that modern security strategies rely heavily on situational awareness, border management, and the protection of critical infrastructure.