Pakistan assumes chairmanship of Digital Cooperation Organisation

Pakistan on Thursday took over the chairmanship of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) at its fifth General Assembly held in Kuwait as senior officials from 16 member countries attended the meeting.

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja represented Pakistan and formally assumed the chair.

She said Pakistan would work to strengthen global cooperation in digital development, cybersecurity, digital inclusion and artificial intelligence during its term.

The DCO is an international platform that promotes cooperation among member states in the digital economy, digital infrastructure and data governance.

During Pakistan’s chairmanship, the organisation will focus on digital education, online safety and equal access to technology.

Khawaja said, "Pakistan will ensure that the benefits of digital progress reach youth, women and all member countries," adding that Pakistan’s leadership role would improve the country’s standing in global digital policymaking and create new opportunities for cooperation in advanced technology sectors.

Speaking to the media, the minister called the chairmanship a matter of national pride, adding, "It will allow Pakistan to better present its views on digital transformation, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies at international forums."

She noted that the DCO was a unique organisation focused solely on information technology and the digital economy, and interest in joining it was increasing.

The minister announced that Pakistan would host the DCO General Assembly next year, calling it a key chance to showcase the country’s progress in the digital sector. She said visits by international delegates often change perceptions about Pakistan.

"The government will highlight its achievements under the prime minister’s vision of Digital Nation Pakistan during its DCO presidency," the minister said.

She also said Saudi Arabia remained a close partner of Pakistan and played a leading role in the DCO as a founding member and major financial contributor.

Khawaja added that talks with Saudi officials covered both multilateral engagement and stronger bilateral economic cooperation, with digital collaboration seen as central to overall economic growth.