Islamabad:
The Federal Cabinet approved HAJJ policy for 2026 and the National Artificial Intelligence Policy (AI) for 2025, marking important stages towards the digitization of services and the exploitation of technology to stimulate economic growth.
Chairing the meeting of the cabinet on Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the full digitization of the Hajj operation next year, aimed at providing the best facilities for pilgrims. “All efforts will be made to ensure the good provision of services to Hajj pilgrims,” he said.
The Hajj 2026 policy includes a government quota of 70% and a private sector quota by 30%. It was pointed out that, following problems with the private sector in the previous year, private companies will guarantee the participation of pilgrims who missed Hajj in 2025.
A new third -party validation system for HAJJ operations will be implemented for the government and private companies, guaranteeing transparency.
Policy also includes the allocation of 1,000 seats for difficulties and real -time monitoring of payments and processes for pilgrims opting for private companies.
In addition, a transparent selection process for Hajj assistants will take place via a test. The government also plans to provide mobile SIM cards, digital bracelets, quality housing and remuneration for emergency situations. The mobile application of the Pakistani hajj will be improved for the management of payments, training and complaints.
National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025
On the AI front, the Prime Minister stressed the accent put by the government on the empowerment of young people and the improvement of the economy via AI. The national IA 2025 policy aims to improve public services, productivity and economic inclusion.
Policy will encourage the development of AI skills, training and access to women and people with disabilities. The cabinet was informed of the AI revolution expected worldwide by 2030, with significant financial impacts on the world economy.
The policy will include an AI innovation fund and a venture capital fund to encourage the participation of the private sector. Steps to increase the use of AI in public services, cybersecurity and environmental management are also covered by policy.
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– Government of Pakistan (@govtofpakistan) July 30, 2025
In addition, 1 million trained AI professionals, 3,000 annual scholarships, 1,000 local AI products and 50,000 AI projects are targeted by 2030.
To supervise the implementation of the policy, the creation of an AI council and an action plan have been approved. The cabinet has also ratified the decisions made in the firm committees on privatization and legislation.
Sharif has also recognized the damage caused by recent rains in various regions of the country, the mountainous areas suffering the most. He ordered that measures be taken to meet the damage caused by these natural disasters.
The Prime Minister also welcomed the efforts of the Minister of Energy and his team, highlighting the successful negotiations with independent electricity producers, who have led to billions of savings rupees for the country.
PM Shehbaz praises the armed forces
While addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz also congratulated the Armed Forces of Pakistan for their contributions to the security of the country, stressing their triumph in the war against India, which left the world in admiration before the military prowess of Pakistan.
He thought about the sacrifices made by Pakistan security forces, noting that their victories have earned them global recognition. “Allah honored the armed forces of Pakistan,” he said, adding: “They won the war against India, and the world is still surprised by our victory, praising Pakistan for that.”
Sharif has also congratulated the security forces for their current efforts in the fight against terrorism. “Our forces make sacrifices in the fight against terrorists,” he added.
PM affirms full support for the state of Palestine
Going to international affairs, Prime Minister Shehbaz sentenced the atrocities in progress to Gaza, describing the situation as unprecedented in its severity. “The suffering observed in Gaza is not like what we have ever seen,” he said, noting the hunger and the generalized suffering of children.
The Prime Minister confirmed that aid for the form of food supplies had been sent to Gaza, coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority, and would be sent via Jordan.
“The state of Palestine will have our total support to ensure its rights,” he said. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to work with other countries to guarantee that the Palestinian people receive justice.
