On June 11–12, 2026, Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram participated as a distinguished speaker at “2026 China-Shanghai Cooperation Organization Digital Technology Cooperation and Development Forum” held at Karamay, Xinjiang, China.
The Forum brought together policymakers, scholars, technology experts, and industry leaders from SCO member states to discuss emerging trends in digital transformation, artificial intelligence, smart governance, and technological innovation. The event served as an important platform for promoting digital cooperation, knowledge sharing, and technological partnerships among SCO countries.
The Forum featured several specialized sessions focusing on key areas of digital development and innovation. These included:
Forum 1: Communications and Computing Infrastructure
This session examined the development of digital infrastructure, intelligent computing platforms, cloud technologies, and the role of computing power in supporting enterprise growth and digital transformation. Discussions highlighted how advanced computing capabilities can accelerate innovation, improve connectivity, and strengthen the digital economy across SCO member states.
Forum 2: AI Applications and Standards Mutual Recognition
The second forum focused on artificial intelligence applications, cloud-network integration, AI capability development, industrial AI solutions, and the importance of establishing common standards and mutual recognition mechanisms. Participants discussed how AI can enhance industrial productivity, support innovation, and contribute to sustainable economic development throughout the SCO region.
Forum 3: Digital Government and Urban Digital Transformation
This forum explored the transformative role of digital technologies in governance, urban management, public service delivery, agricultural modernization, and enterprise digitalization. Discussions emphasized how smart technologies can improve government efficiency, strengthen public administration, promote innovation, and enhance the quality of life in urban and rural communities. Particular attention was given to digital government initiatives, smart city development, digital management systems, and technology-driven solutions for sustainable urban growth.
Forum 4: Low-Altitude Economy and Space Computing
The fourth forum examined emerging technologies related to space-based computing, low-altitude economic development, intelligent computing systems, and the future applications of advanced aerospace technologies. Discussions highlighted the growing importance of integrating digital technologies with next-generation industrial and economic sectors.
Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram delivered his keynote address on June 12 during Forum 3: Digital Government and Urban Digital Transformation, where he shared his views on the Digitization of Smart Cities and Pakistan’s vision for technology-driven urban development. He emphasized that rapid urbanization, population growth, and environmental challenges require innovative digital solutions to improve governance, public services, and urban sustainability. According to Mr. Akram, smart cities should integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance efficiency, transparency, and citizen engagement.
He further highlighted the importance of developing citizen-centric smart cities that prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience. Mr. Akram stressed that digital governance, smart infrastructure, and intelligent urban planning can improve service delivery and quality of life while addressing environmental concerns. He also underscored the need for greater cooperation among SCO countries in digital infrastructure development, technology transfer, innovation, and knowledge sharing to accelerate regional digital transformation and sustainable growth.
The China–SCO Digital Technology Cooperation and Development Forum provided an important platform for meaningful dialogue, professional exchange, and policy-oriented discussions on the future of digital innovation. Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram’s participation reflected Pakistan’s commitment to digital transformation and highlighted the importance of international cooperation in building smarter, more sustainable, and technologically advanced societies across the SCO region.
