LONDON/LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has assigned the additional portfolio of International Cooperation to her adviser Ali Dar as part of a new initiative aimed at attracting foreign investment, strengthening international partnerships, and expanding Punjab's global economic engagement. According to an official announcement, Dar's revised designation will be Adviser to the Chief Minister on Artificial Intelligence, International Cooperation, and Special Initiatives.
A notification has been issued confirming the additional responsibilities. On Maryam Nawaz's instructions, the Punjab government has also established the Office of International Coordination and Cooperation (OICAC), with Dar appointed to lead the new body.
The Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT) has been linked with OICAC to coordinate international investment initiatives, trade opportunities, and partnerships with foreign institutions. The move is intended to strengthen Punjab's engagement with international investors and create a more coordinated framework for attracting foreign investment into the province, said Ali Dar in an interview.
Dar said the new office would play a central role in promoting international cooperation, facilitating foreign investment, and identifying opportunities for economic partnerships. "Our priority is to strengthen Punjab's global economic connections and create new opportunities for international investors," Dar said.
He noted that increased foreign investment would help generate business activity, employment opportunities, and economic growth across Punjab. Dar added that OICAC would improve coordination between government departments and help translate international partnerships into practical economic projects.
Dar said the Punjab government would adopt a coordinated strategy to expand international trade relations, attract investment, and promote the province's economic potential globally. Dar was originally appointed Adviser to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Artificial Intelligence and Special Initiatives on 9 February 2026.
The appointment gave Dar the status and powers of a provincial minister, with responsibility for promoting innovation, technology adoption, job creation, and AI-driven improvements in governance. Dar is the eldest son of Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
He is married to Asma Nawaz Sharif, the daughter of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and niece of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He studied at Aitchison College in Lahore before moving to Britain for higher education in 2000.
He attended University College London and the University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology, where he obtained a degree in software engineering. Before entering the Punjab government, Dar founded the UAE-based HDS Group of Companies, which has interests in real estate development.
He served as its chief executive until 2024, with the group's operations subsequently overseen by his younger brother, Hasnain Dar. This strategic expansion of his portfolio reflects the provincial government's commitment to leveraging modern technology and global networks to drive economic stability.