Minister of State and Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) Chairman Bilal Bin Saqib met OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in New York on September 24, 2026, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The meeting focused on Pakistan’s potential role in the global artificial intelligence economy.
According to Saqib, the discussion covered AI infrastructure, education, skills development and Pakistan’s growing pool of technology talent. They also discussed opportunities for stronger engagement between Pakistan and OpenAI. Saqib said Pakistan could use its young workforce, digital capacity and energy resources to take part in the expanding AI sector.
No specific investment, partnership or agreement was announced following the meeting. Saqib’s public comments focused on exploring Pakistan’s role in the international AI ecosystem rather than confirming a formal deal with OpenAI.
The meeting came as AI received significant attention at the UN this week. Altman was also scheduled to brief the UN Security Council on artificial intelligence and international security. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed the country’s support for international cooperation on AI during a UN Security Council briefing on September 24.
