At LEAP 2025, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Minister of Information Technology and Telecommunication in Pakistan, stressed the importance of ethical artificial intelligence (AI) governance, data security, and digital inclusivity. She spoke at the DCO Ministerial Panel, focusing on how AI can be used responsibly for the betterment of society.
| Topic | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Event | DCO Ministerial Panel at LEAP 2025 |
| Speaker | Shaza Fatima Khawaja |
| Focus | Ethical AI Governance and Digital Inclusion |
The Role of Multilateral Cooperation in AI Governance
The panel titled “Shaping the Future of Ethical AI: Multilateral Perspectives on Governance and Risk Management” was led by H.E. Deemah Al Yahya, Secretary General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO). The discussion aimed at creating a global framework for responsible AI.
| Discussion Focus | Key Issues Addressed |
|---|---|
| Global Leadership | Hosted by Deemah Al Yahya |
| Objective | Building global governance frameworks for AI |
| Main Focus | Ensuring responsible AI implementation |
Ethical Considerations in AI Implementation
Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized the transformative power of AI but highlighted the importance of responsible implementation. She called for strong regulatory frameworks to ensure that AI benefits society fairly, without discrimination.
| Ethical Focus | Key Considerations |
|---|---|
| Responsible AI Implementation | Preventing discrimination and bias |
| Regulatory Frameworks | Ensuring fairness in AI systems |
Data Privacy, Security, and Fairness
During her speech, Shaza Fatima Khawaja also pointed out that AI systems must respect data privacy and security. She stressed that global collaboration is needed to ensure that AI governance frameworks are built with fairness and accountability in mind.
| Topic | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Data Privacy & Security | Essential for ethical AI governance |
| Global Collaboration | Needed to ensure fairness in AI systems |
Bridging the Digital Divide
Minister Shaza called for bridging the digital divide, especially in developing countries. She advocated for inclusive AI policies and capacity-building initiatives that would provide equal opportunities to all, ensuring that AI empowers communities socially, not just economically.
| Issue | Solution Proposed |
|---|---|
| Digital Divide | Promoting inclusive AI policies |
| Capacity Building | Empowering developing nations with AI |
AI for Social Empowerment
Shaza Fatima Khawaja emphasized that AI should be a tool for social empowerment. She explained that its benefits should not be limited to economic growth but also focused on creating an equitable digital future for everyone, including marginalized communities.
| Focus | Goal |
|---|---|
| AI for Social Empowerment | Ensuring AI benefits all society |
| Inclusive Policies | AI as a tool for social equality |
Sustainability in AI Development
Minister Shaza also highlighted the need for environmentally responsible AI development. She urged the reduction of AI’s carbon footprint, advocating for sustainable practices in AI deployment to protect the environment.
| Sustainability Focus | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Environmental Responsibility | Reducing AI’s carbon footprint |
| Sustainable AI Practices | Promoting eco-friendly AI development |
Pakistan’s Commitment to Ethical AI
Minister Shaza spoke about Pakistan’s AI strategy, stressing the government’s commitment to developing a comprehensive AI policy that balances technological progress with ethical considerations. Pakistan aims to use AI to improve public services, enhance economic growth, and build a sustainable digital ecosystem.
| Pakistan’s Strategy | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| AI Policy | Balancing technology with ethics |
| Public Services | Enhancing services through AI |
Strengthening Global Cooperation
In her concluding remarks, Minister Shaza called for strengthened international cooperation to create an inclusive, transparent, and accountable AI-powered future. She urged governments, businesses, and technology leaders to collaborate on establishing global ethical AI frameworks to promote stability and sustainable progress.
| Key Call to Action | Desired Outcome |
|---|---|
| Strengthened International Cooperation | Inclusive, transparent, and accountable AI governance |
| Collaboration between Governments and Businesses | Building a sustainable, ethical AI future |
Through these discussions and her advocacy, Shaza Fatima Khawaja is pushing for AI systems that prioritize fairness, security, and social good. Her leadership highlights the importance of global cooperation in shaping a responsible and equitable future with AI.
