Pakistan’s growing IT sector has immense potential to become part of the broader strategic and defense ties with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the next level, said Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the 26th ITCN Asia on Tuesday, she said Pakistan’s IT sector is strengthening itself on various fronts to evolve into a key regional player and a data transshipment hub for countries including China and Central Asia.
“We are working on rolling out several undersea submarine cables at up to five points to meet the demand for local internet traffic, while also providing connectivity to China and Central Asian states,” she said.
She added that Pakistan’s IT sector is flourishing in multiple dimensions, with nearly 20% annual growth and a strong contribution to the economy. The record increase in exports was made possible through the combined efforts of the government and IT companies, which visited nearly 20 countries over the past one and a half years.
The government is also working to enhance internet connectivity nationwide, with greater fiberization and the planned launch of 5G in seven cities by the end of 2025. “Right of Way issues have been resolved across provinces, and upgrading the telecom network to 5G will attract millions of dollars in foreign direct investment,” she said, adding, “We have also made regulatory strides for the launch of satellite internet services, which will soon be available to the public.”
Shaza Fatima further highlighted that the growing demand for internet services has increased spectrum requirements, which are being expanded from 20 MHz to 100 MHz under government plans.
“We need to strengthen digital security and establish sovereign cybersecurity for the country. Therefore, the government is aggressively promoting AI and cybersecurity, including capacity building for national institutions and private companies, along with training one million people who will be part of the digital ecosystem in the future,” she emphasized.
The federal minister also said the government is working to digitize its governance system, with the first phase expected to be completed by the end of this year.
Shaza Fatima urged IT companies, academia, and stakeholders to collaborate closely to further strengthen Pakistan’s IT industry and its role in national development.