China to Train 300,000 Pakistani youth annually in digital skills

LAHORE, July 19: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Prof. Ahsan Iqbal has said that China will provide digital skills training to 300,000 Pakistani youth every year, which will further strengthen the country’s technology sector and knowledge economy.

The Federal Minister said that Pakistan has emerged as the fourth-largest freelancing country in the world and that the talent and capabilities of its youth are playing a vital role in expanding the digital economy and boosting exports. He urged freelancers and IT professionals to align themselves with artificial intelligence and emerging technologies in order to remain competitive in the global marketplace.

He expressed these views during a discussion with LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol at the 3rd LCCI IT Freelancing Awards 2026 organized by the Lahore Chamber.

Prof. Ahsan Iqbal said that success in today’s world no longer requires large offices or heavy investments; rather, knowledge, skills, and access to technology have become the most valuable assets. He noted that Pakistani youth are not only proving their capabilities by serving clients across the globe but are also earning valuable foreign exchange for the country.

Speaking on the occasion, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said that the government and private sector can jointly transform Pakistan into a strong digital economy hub for the region. He stated that innovation, information technology, and the digital economy are central pillars of the “Uraan Pakistan” vision and that Pakistani freelancers have the potential to turn this vision into reality.

Punjab Finance Minister Mian Mujtaba Shuja Ur Rehman said that the Lahore Chamber’s efforts to recognize and celebrate the achievements of talented Pakistani freelancers are highly commendable. He remarked that freelancing is no longer an alternative profession but has become a strong and significant pillar of Pakistan’s digital economy, with freelancers contributing millions of dollars in foreign exchange annually and strengthening the national economy.

He added that Pakistani freelancers are, in fact, digital ambassadors of the country who are projecting a positive image of Pakistan on the global stage. He said that the Punjab Government fully understands the need for internationally accepted payment systems and a robust digital financial ecosystem and is working with the Federal Government and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to address barriers related to international payments for freelancers.

Mian Mujtaba Shuja Ur Rehman said that the government’s objective is to ensure that freelancers receive their earnings through secure, fast, and convenient channels. He reiterated the Punjab Government’s commitment to promoting a business-friendly environment, transparency, and predictable economic policies, while encouraging digital services exports and foreign exchange earners.

He further stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, significant investments are being made in digital infrastructure, innovation, technology parks, IT zones, and innovation hubs across Punjab, creating new employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people. He noted that Punjab is the first province in Pakistan to launch large-scale Artificial Intelligence initiatives and aims to become the national center for AI, innovation, and digital entrepreneurship.

The Punjab Finance Minister emphasized that the government’s vision is not only to produce successful freelancers but also AI developers, startup founders, and global technology leaders. He stressed that continuous consultation between the government and the private sector remains essential for developing sustainable and competitive economic policies.