Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal has called for facilitating cross-border data sharing to address the global challenges like climate change and pandemics.

Addressing a ceremony in Islamabad today, he urged global community to turn data into a tool for empowerment, collaboration and progress.

Ahsan Iqbal said equitable use of data requires a global framework. He highlighted the inclusive participation from developing nations in shaping the international data governance standards.

The Minister also stressed on developing ethical guidelines to safeguard individual privacy and data sovereignty.

He said, for Pakistan, responsible use of data is not just a choice but a necessity to build a future defined by equity, innovation and sustainability.

The Minister said data driven decision making can increase productivity up to twenty percent in sectors such as agriculture and healthcare.