ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Google have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at expanding cooperation in digital skills, artificial intelligence (AI) and technology-driven growth as the government works towards building a $30 billion digital economy by 2030.
The agreement, signed in the presence of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, covers several areas including AI, digital government services, agriculture, digital payments, app development and the gaming sector.
Under the partnership, Google plans to provide 150,000 Google Career Certificates to Pakistani youth in 2026. The programme will focus on practical, market-oriented skills to help young people improve their employment prospects in the growing technology sector.
Google will also explore offering students access to advanced AI tools, including one-year free access to Google AI Plus and Gemini Notebook, to support learning, research and academic work. Another major initiative is the establishment of a Google AI Centre of Excellence in Islamabad, which will train young people and help develop a workforce capable of competing in international technology markets.
The partnership will also bring AI into government operations. Google will support the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in using modern technology to improve tax administration, streamline operations and enhance public services.
AI-based solutions will also be explored in agriculture, particularly for crop monitoring, yield forecasting and promoting more sustainable farming practices. The two sides will further work on helping small and medium-sized businesses use digital platforms to reach international markets.
Pakistan and Google have also agreed to support local app developers and gaming studios and explore ways to strengthen the country’s digital payments and digital trade systems. A joint task force involving government officials, Google and industry representatives will identify challenges and opportunities for increasing IT exports. It will also examine investment opportunities in hardware manufacturing and technology services while focusing on improving access to international markets.
Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima said the government had been working to improve digital infrastructure, facilitate businesses and expand Pakistan’s pool of IT professionals. Google Cluster Director for Pakistan, the Philippines and Thailand Farhan Qureshi said the company wanted to deepen its partnership with Pakistan and help unlock the country’s digital potential.
The MoU was signed by IT Secretary Zarrar Hasham and Google’s Head of South-East Asia and South Asia Public Policy David Weller at a ceremony attended by senior government officials and Google representatives.
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