OIC ministers meet to advance AI cooperation
The Second Ministerial Meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC-15) Dialogue Platform began in Tehran on Sunday, with a strong focus on the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) across the Islamic world.
The three-day meeting under the theme of 'Innovation in Science and Technology through using AI: A strategy for excellence, a bright future for the Islamic World' aims to foster regional cooperation through scientific diplomacy and dialogue.
The meeting will focus on advancing science, technology, and higher education and to provide an opportunity to address pressing issues in the technology sector, particularly those impacting education, economic growth, and innovation.
In this regard, senior officials met on Sunday for a preparatory session, co-chaired by Prof Dr Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General of the OIC-COMSTECH, and Prof Farhad Yazdandust, First Deputy Minister of Science, Research, and Technology of Iran and head of the International Scientific Cooperation Centre.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Express Tribune
6 days ago
- Express Tribune
After DeepSeek, China's JC10 moment
The writer heads the independent Centre for Research and Security Studies, Islamabad. He is currently a visiting Research Fellow at Fudan University, Shanghai Listen to article Amidst the intricate tapestry of Chinese intellectual and academic circles, a distinct sense of pride permeates the nation's achievements. The recent, albeit perilous, Indo-Pak confrontation (May 7-10) serves as a catalyst for this sentiment. As the ongoing war of information and propaganda intensifies, Chinese intellectuals eagerly celebrate the groundbreaking milestones achieved through their technological advancements, particularly in the domains of AI-driven satellites, jet fighters and missiles, in collaboration with the Pakistan Air Force. They find amusement in the spotlight that has been bestowed upon their defence hardware, which emerged triumphant after four days of engagement. Following the DeepSeek, Beijing and Shanghai have experienced a collective sense of triumph akin to the JC10-PL15 Moment for most academics. This moment is fueled by the successful demonstration of their technology, which has garnered widespread attention. An excerpt from The National Interest elucidates the recriminations between the Indian and French governments over access to source codes for the Rafale jets. These events have engendered both anger in India and amusement in Beijing. Chinese social media platforms have been abuzz with these developments, as they find amusement in the circumstances. After all, why should they not? Chinese weapons and warplanes exceeded expectations during the conflict. When news emerged of India's inability to access Dassault's source code, coinciding with India's capture of an intact Chinese PL-15 missile, one of Beijing's "wolf warrior", diplomats took to X to mock New Delhi: "India invested $288 million per Rafale, yet they lack access to the source code. Furthermore, they assert their ability to 'extract the software' from the wreckage of a PL-15 missile. However, they are unable to access the fundamental functions of their own Rafale jets." While exuberance is understandable, it should not be construed as complacency. The Indo-Pak confrontation has only served as a catalyst for further pursuit of excellence through meticulous deliberation and strategic planning, both domestically and internationally. Discussions at universities, think tanks and official quarters continue to be influenced by the recent four-day conflict between nuclear rivals, India and Pakistan. The episode appears to have energised Chinese academia to engage in forward planning and explore options for enhanced and more effective cooperation with partner countries, particularly Pakistan. Why is this the case? Consistency is ensured by the Communist Party, which underpins China's entire political economy and the intellectual growth led by a dedicated leadership that ascends the political ladder through a rigorous accountability process. Only those with the utmost integrity and demonstrated commitment to the party and the people are successful in this process. What unites these individuals is an unwavering faith in the well-being of citizens and the belief that investment in human resources is essential for progress. Whether it is the iconic Great Wall in Beijing or Shanghai, Yiwu or Guangzhou, China's defence hi-tech capabilities, dozens of high-altitude glass bridges, or Shanghai's Global Finance Center, they all convey the same message: unwavering policy consistency, honesty and visionary leadership, coupled with absolute focus on the welfare and education of the people. These factors have transformed China and propelled it to a position where it is now asserting itself even against the United States. While President Trump's bullying tactics were met with resistance, China agreed to engage in diplomatic discussions but refused to yield. The recent grand summit in Kuala Lumpur, which involved China, ASEAN and the GCC, provided a glimpse of Beijing's unwavering commitment to peaceful engagement and win-win cooperation rather than coercive diplomacy. While President Biden's Build Back Better World initiative has seemingly lost momentum, the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) continues to thrive and attract an increasing number of countries. Since Xi Jinping assumed the presidency in 2012, China has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in research and capacity building. Notably, the Chinese military has undergone a significant reduction in personnel, with nearly 300,000 personnel being eliminated. Additionally, the generals have been instructed to prioritise their professional duties and future challenges rather than engaging in commercial ventures. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) must maintain its focus on excellence and avoid any involvement in commercial activities. Both the PLA and the Communist Party have endured severe purges of high-ranking officials for corruption, inefficiency and betrayal of their responsibilities. The driving force behind China's current success lies in an ecosystem anchored in solid planning, facilitated knowledge and skill development, and the pursuit of excellence. This system operates on merit and celebrates knowledge and skills. Coincidentally, as I was concluding this article, a public service text message arrived on my mobile device, reminding us that May 30th is the 9th National Science and Technology Workers' Day and coincides with the 25th National Science and Technology Activity Week. "We extend our utmost respect to all science and technology workers. Let us harness innovation as our guiding principle and hard work as our propulsion, collectively constructing the vision of a robust nation through science and technology," said the message from the ministry. This inspiring message serves as a testament to the recognition of science and technology as the indispensable key to self-sufficiency and competitiveness, positioning China at a significant advantage over other nations. It is unsurprising that China is experiencing a surge of technological achievements that few countries can boast of - something that instills a sense of confidence and fosters national pride.
Express Tribune
20-05-2025
- Express Tribune
Eidul Adha likely to be celebrated on June 7
Listen to article Eidul Adha is expected to be observed in Pakistan on June 7, as astronomical calculations indicate no chance of sighting the Zilhajj moon on May 27. Renowned astronomer Dr Faheem Hashmi stated that the moon will be only 11 hours old at sunset on May 27, making it too young to be visible from anywhere in Pakistan. However, he predicted that the crescent is likely to be seen on May 28, which would mark the first day of Zilhajj and set June 7 as the likely date for Eidul Adha. 'The moon will be over 35 hours old on May 28, significantly increasing the chances of sighting,' Dr Hashmi added. Meanwhile, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Eidul Adha is expected on June 6, according to the Emirates Astronomy Society. Its chairman, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, said the crescent will appear at 7:02 am UAE time on May 27 and will remain visible for approximately 38 minutes after sunset, supporting a likely sighting on the same evening. According to Gulf News, if the moon is sighted on May 27 in the UAE, May 28 will mark the beginning of Zilhajj, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Express Tribune
19-05-2025
- Express Tribune
State Bank of Pakistan awards
Raqami Islamic Digital Bank Limited has been awarded a restricted banking license by State Bank of Pakistan under the Licensing and Regulatory Framework for Digital Banks to commence pilot operations as a Digital Retail Bank. The approval marks a defining moment in Raqami's journey to become Pakistan's first fully Shariah-compliant, Digital Retail Bank offering a seamless, intuitive, and inclusive banking experience powered by personalised products and services designed to meet customers' evolving financial needs. The Licensing and Regulatory Framework for Digital Banks of the State Bank of Pakistan has been brought in to encourage innovation, improve financial access for customers, and foster secure and responsible digital banking practices through a phased licensing process, with full Commercial Operations to follow the pilot phase. In the run up to securing the approval for pilot, Raqami demonstrated to the State Bank of Pakistan its operational readiness, with its robust technology and information security infrastructure, effective risk management and controls, and compliance with Shariah principles and regulatory standards. The issuance of the restricted pilot license has set in motion a key phase aimed at validating Raqami's end-to-end systems within a secure and controlled environment. Mr Abdullah Al-Mutairi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Raqami Bank stated: The global fintech and digital banking market is estimated to grow exponentially, based on rapidly transforming customer preferences for digital financial services and products. Raqami holds a similar promise for the people of Pakistan, reflecting the shareholders' vision to transform banking in Pakistan through digital innovation, aligned with Islamic principles, for increased financial inclusion. I would like to reaffirm the Board's commitment to upholding the highest standards of financial integrity and service excellence as we move forward, while delivering secure and meaningful digital experiences that bridge financial gaps and contribute to Pakistan's national development. I would like to thank the State Bank of Pakistan for its continuous support and guidance through the process of operationalizing Raqami, and in placing trust in our vision, compliance, and operational capabilities. Under the leadership of the Board of Directors and CEO, I would also like to recognise the Raqami team and everyone who contributed to this achievement. Mr Umair Aijaz, Chief Executive Officer of Raqami Bank, remarked: Today marks more than just a regulatory milestone — it signals the beginning of a new era in Pakistan's financial journey. With the State Bank of Pakistan's approval to commence Pilot operations, Raqami proudly takes an important step forward to becoming the country's first fully Shariah-compliant Digital Retail Bank, built entirely from the ground up. Raqami has leveraged its greenfield status to build a strong framework for a Digital-first Islamic Retail Bank — one that is actively reimagining how Pakistanis experience financial services, placing convenience, transparency, and trust at the heart of every interaction. We're not just preparing for the future — we're architecting it, guided by Shariah principles and driven by innovation. Our mission is to deliver easy to use, inclusive, and ethical financial solutions that replace complexity with clarity and remove barriers to access – by offering tailored products and services designed around customer needs. We believe banking should be as seamless as using your phone, as principled as your values, and as accessible as your aspirations. Raqami is more than just a bank — it is a movement towards financial dignity and digital empowerment for every Pakistani. Dr Mufti Muhammad Imran Ashraf Usmani, Chairman of Shariah Board Raqami Bank asserted: As a Digital Islamic Retail Bank, Raqami is guided by the ethos and values of Islam, ensuring that all offerings are interest-free, fair, ethical, asset- backed, and strictly adhere to Shariah tenets. Since the start of its operationalisation phase, the Shariah Board has been fully engaged with Raqami to ensure all products and services are compliant with Islamic jurisprudence. Raqami bank's entry into Pakistan's banking landscape will enable customers to participate in a completely riba-free digital financial ecosystem, in line with the growing demands of Pakistan's population. Going forward, Raqami will deepen its investment in a scalable and interoperable technology platform powered by Open APIs, Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) capabilities, and intelligent automation. The platform will enable seamless integration with fintechs, telecom operators, and other ecosystem players to deliver real-time, personalised, and secure Shariah compliant financial services as part of its digital growth roadmap. Our aim over the next five years is to catalyse a transformation of Pakistan's banking industry, by leading with inclusiveness, innovation, excellence in Shariah compliance and convenience. Raqami is backed by Pakistan Kuwait Investment Company (Private) Limited, a joint venture between the Governments of Pakistan and Kuwait; and Enertech Holding Company KSC, a subsidiary of the sovereign wealth fund of Kuwait, the Kuwait Investment Authority. This strategic shareholding reflects Raqami's strong institutional foundation, underpinning a strong, long-term commitment to supporting Pakistan's digital economy and the unserved and underserved segments of Pakistan, aligned with the vision of the State Bank of Pakistan.
