Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, during her official visit to China, announced a groundbreaking partnership with Huawei Technologies to transform Lahore into Pakistan’s first state-of-the-art smart city. The collaboration marks a significant step in Punjab’s digital transformation and urban modernization efforts.
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During her visit to Huawei’s headquarters in Shanghai’s Longgang District, Maryam Nawaz was warmly received by company representatives. She held a comprehensive meeting with Huawei’s President for Government Affairs, Wang Chengdong, to discuss the roadmap for Lahore’s transformation into a cutting-edge digital city.
Key Areas of Focus
The discussions revolved around several critical areas, including:
- E-commerce and Ecosystem Production: Enhancing digital trade and industrial capacity.
- Health and Education Digitalization: Leveraging technology to improve public services in these sectors.
- AI and IT Integration: Introducing artificial intelligence in education and establishing Punjab’s first AI-based university.
Maryam also highlighted Huawei’s contributions to Lahore’s Safe City project, applauding their role in creating a secure digital ecosystem and inviting further involvement in urban safety initiatives.
Investment Opportunities in Punjab
The Chief Minister invited Huawei to invest in the province, particularly in the Nawaz Sharif IT City. She assured full cooperation in setting up assembly and manufacturing plants, which could create jobs and bolster economic growth. Additionally, she proposed developing retail offices and after-sales service centers to expand Huawei’s footprint across Punjab. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of “Digital Punjab,” which seeks to modernize governance, improve urban living standards, and promote innovation-driven growth.
Education and AI Collaboration
Beyond the Huawei partnership, Maryam Nawaz explored China’s education system to understand its approach to integrating technology into learning. She visited the Shanghai Experimental School, known for providing free AI education to students aged 12-15. Maryam observed teaching methods, interacted with students and faculty, and inspected their AI projects. She praised their efforts, noting that similar models could be adopted in Punjab to equip youth with advanced digital skills.
Benefits of a Smart City
Smart cities use information and communication technologies (ICT) and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and quality of life. Maryam emphasized that Lahore’s transformation would set a precedent for other cities in Pakistan, driving economic growth and improving urban services such as transportation, waste management, and energy distribution.
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Huawei officials assured full cooperation in the venture, highlighting their commitment to setting up assembly plants and enhancing collaboration in health, education, and urban safety. Wang Chengdong expressed optimism about aligning Huawei’s technological expertise with Punjab’s strategic goals.