ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday took over the presidency of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) at its fifth General Assembly held in Kuwait.

At a ceremony, attended by senior officials from 16 member countries, Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja took over the presidency.

Speaking on the occasion, she said Pakistan would promote joint global efforts in digital cooperation, cybersecurity, digital inclusion and artificial intelligence.

The DCO is an international forum aimed at strengthening cooperation among member states in the areas of digital economy, digital infrastructure and data governance. In a statement, Ms Khawaja said that under Pakistan’s leadership the DCO would work to ensure that the benefits of the digital revolution reach youth, women and all member countries. She said the development highlighted Pakistan’s growing role in global digital discourse and would create new opportunities for international cooperation in advanced technologies.

Founded in November 2020, the DCO is the world’s first standalone international organisation focused exclusively on the digital economy. Its stated mission is to achieve social prosperity and growth by unifying member states’ efforts to advance digital transformation and promote common interests.

The organisation seeks to provide fair opportunities for countries, businesses and individuals to prosper in a cross-border and sustainable digital economy, with a particular focus on empowering youth, women and entrepreneurs through innovation.

Published in Dawn, February 6th, 2026