Latest news with #DigitalNationPakistanAct
Business Recorder
09-07-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Climate-related threats: IT Minister announces five-point framework
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Tuesday announced a five-point framework that uses IT, data, and technology to address climate-related threats. She made the announcement, while delivering a keynote speech at the National Conference on Climate Challenges. Highlighting the rapid growth of Pakistan's IT sector, the minister emphasised that sustainable development is only possible through the effective use of data. 'Data plays a pivotal role in policymaking and decision-making,' she stated. She termed the Digital Nation Pakistan Act a groundbreaking legislative step that will establish systems for data exchange and interoperability across government departments. Khawaja also announced the establishment of a specialised National Incubation Centre for Climate Agri Tech and noted that young innovators are being supported through IGNITE with facilities for research, incubation, and commercialisation. The minister said Pakistan Stack, a new initiative, will connect youth-led innovation with government data, opening new pathways for digital solutions. She noted that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally chairs meetings on environmental issues, showing his strong commitment to tackling climate challenges. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
01-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Investor confidence: Minister praises SIFC for being key driver
ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Wednesday praised the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), describing it as a key driver in restoring investor confidence through its 'whole-of-government' approach. Speaking at the two-day Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) conference, Khawaja credited the military-backed initiative with streamlining decision-making and fostering a coordinated environment that reassures both local and foreign investors. 'The SIFC's whole-of-government approach has significantly contributed to building investor confidence in Pakistan,' she added. She said Pakistan is ready to become a hub of technology and digital investment, adding strong public-private partnerships, progressive policies, and a growing number of skilled IT professionals as key strengths. 'Today, we can proudly say that if you invest in Pakistan, we will make sure the magic happens for you,' she said, emphasising the need for continued collaboration between the public and private sectors, international partners, and development organisations to unlock Pakistan's full potential – not only in IT but also in agriculture, healthcare, finance, education, and manufacturing. 'Technology is no longer limited to one sector. It now plays a role in every field and is essential for overall development,' she added, noting that the digital shift brings both challenges and new opportunities for growth. Khawaja highlighted Pakistan's demographic advantage, with nearly 150 million young people under the age of 30, which she said gives the country a promising future in digital innovation. She also outlined key policy initiatives, including the Digital Nation Pakistan Act, the National AI Policy, the Cybersecurity Policy, the development of technology parks and special technology zones, and support for a strong startup ecosystem and the transition to a cashless economy. 'Pakistan now offers a complete digital ecosystem driven by leadership, vision, and talent. We are no longer followers—we are ready to lead,' she said. She credited the prime minister's leadership for steering these efforts and noted that around 75,000 IT graduates and 300,000 certified professionals join the workforce every year, providing a solid base for growth. She announced that Pakistan will assume the presidency of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) in 2026 and expressed hope for expanding regional technology corridors to ensure access to markets, talent, capital, and best practices. Khawaja also thanked the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, Ministry of Commerce, local administration, security agencies, and especially the private sector for their support. Speaking at a presser, Secretary General of DCO Deemah AlYahya commended Pakistan for championing DFDI. She emphasised that Pakistan's leadership role would not only advance the nation's technological infrastructure but also enable it to support other countries in their digital growth. She said the presidency of Pakistan for DCO in 2026 is a continued effort to position the country as the digital powerhouse for the region and the world, adding the DCO is working to open markets for enterprises across all member states, fostering cross-border collaboration. Pakistan, she noted, will play a key role in driving these advancements. AlYahya also expressed optimism about Pakistan's growing digital sector, particularly the youth-driven innovation. 'Seeing the youth and the growth in Pakistan's digital sector gives us a great sense of optimism,' she said. 'It motivates us to collaborate with all our member countries and utilise the advancements in each nation.' She highlighted the importance of identifying each country's competitive advantages to address global challenges, noting that DCO's role is to pinpoint these strengths and areas for improvement. She pointed to the Digital FDI event in Pakistan as an example of how the country's infrastructure, youth talent, and advancements in software and hardware could attract private sector investment and harness new opportunities. 'The Digital FDI event here in Pakistan is a prime example of how we can leverage Pakistan's competitive advantages to create global opportunities,' she added. The two-day moot concluded with a strong pledge to position Pakistan as a regional leader in technology, information technology (IT), and information and communication technology (ICT). The event saw participation from more than 45 countries, with over 40 international companies and startups showcasing their products. Around 35 ministers and official delegations from various countries attended, along with over 30 global speakers and more than 50 CEOs from leading IT firms. Organised by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication in collaboration with the DCO, the DFDI Forum 2025 was aimed to promote Pakistan as a key destination for digital investment and innovation. The forum brought together investors, policymakers, industry leaders, and tech experts from around the world to explore opportunities in the growing digital economy. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
01-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Country ready for ‘digital revolution', says Dar
ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar declared on Wednesday that Pakistan is poised to take a leading role in the digital revolution, emphasising that the future of investment lies in technology. Speaking at the close of the two-day Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) conference, Dar said: Pakistan is ready. The future is digital. And we welcome the world to partner with us in building that future. Dar, a former economic czar of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), underscored the growing significance of economic diplomacy, saying it was the key to revolutionising Pakistan's trade and investment scene, especially within the booming IT sector. His message was clear: Pakistan is not just ready – it is eager for international collaboration to push its digital economy forward. According to Dar, this forum is a game changer, not just for Pakistan but for the entire Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO). 'We are setting the stage for a future where global economies thrive through digital partnerships,' he said, emphasising the crucial role of collaboration in the DFDI initiative. He highlighted that Pakistan's commitment to world-class digital infrastructure is unwavering. The government is pouring investments into fiber-optic networks, cloud infrastructure, and digital platforms to ensure sustainability and scalability. 'This is about building a digital backbone that will power Pakistan's future as a leading digital nation.' He said that industries such as artificial intelligence, fintech, and e-commerce are thriving, reshaping the economy and positioning the nation to compete globally, adding the digital services exports are becoming a cornerstone of the country's economic strategy, with tech talent being exported worldwide. Dar also highlighted the groundbreaking Digital Nation Pakistan Act, which is poised to revolutionise every sector, from governance to healthcare to education. He pointed out that Pakistan is not just participating in the digital transformation; it's leading the way, shaping policies, proposing frameworks, and fostering innovation. Referring to the potential for digital growth in the region, he said 'with a combined GDP of $3.5 trillion and over 800 million people, the DCO region is the perfect place for digital investment.' Dar was not shy about calling for global attention, emphasising that Pakistan is offering a prime opportunity for investors. With investor-friendly policies, significant regulatory reforms, and a cost advantage of up to 70 per cent compared to North America, Pakistan is the ideal destination for digital business. 'The time to invest in Pakistan is now,' Dar urged. 'This country is a market of scale, resilience, and untapped potential. We are open for digital business.' As Pakistan gets ready to assume the presidency of the Digital Cooperation Organisation in 2026, Dar reaffirmed the country's commitment to shaping global digital policy and acting as a bridge between emerging markets and the global tech ecosystem. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the turnout reflects rising international confidence in Pakistan's digital potential, emphasising Pakistan's 240 million-strong population and youthful workforce make it an ideal market for startups and foreign investors. During a meeting with Deema AlYahya, the secretary general of the DCO, who called on him at PM Secretariat, Prime Minister Sharif said that the country's most valuable asset is our youth and equipping them with digital skills and providing opportunities through innovation and investment is the top priority of his government. He highlighted the government's commitment to business-friendly policies and technology transfer, calling digital transformation 'a revolution reshaping economies.' AlYahya praised Pakistan's efforts and called her participation in the forum's inaugural session in Islamabad an honour. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Arab News
08-02-2025
- Business
- Arab News
At Leap 2025, Pakistan to showcase commitment to digitally empowered future
Pakistan is making bold strides in the global tech landscape, emerging as a key player in artificial intelligence, digital finance, and startup innovation. As the nation prepares to take the spotlight at LEAP 2025 in Riyadh from Feb. 9-12, it presents a compelling narrative of digital transformation, investment potential, and technological excellence. This marks Pakistan's biggest ever participation at an international event with over 100 companies and 1,000+ delegates on board, showcasing a booming IT industry, progressive policies, and a rapidly growing talent pool that is poised for unprecedented growth in the digital economy. A digital nation on the rise At the heart of Pakistan's transformation is the Digital Nation Pakistan Act. This landmark policy is designed to bolster innovation, attract both foreign and domestic investment, and empower entrepreneurs. By strengthening digital infrastructure, enhancing cybersecurity, and nurturing a knowledge-driven economy, the DNP Act is positioning Pakistan as a premier destination for global tech players looking for new markets and opportunities. Working under the proactive guidance of the Ministry of IT and Telecom, alongside the broader Digital Pakistan Policy, these initiatives are cultivating an environment where technology fuels every aspect of economic and social development. A strategic tech partnership Saudi Arabia and Pakistan share a long-standing relationship that is now evolving into a powerful alliance in technology and innovation. Both nations are increasingly exploring avenues for collaboration in digital transformation and tech-driven projects. Early initiatives and discussions ranging from cybersecurity and smart infrastructure to startup investments, signal a growing commitment to shared growth. Moreover, Pakistan's robust business ties with the Kingdom are underscored by the significant presence of Pakistani companies operating in Saudi Arabia, further strengthening economic bonds and opening up new markets for innovation. A unified digital vision for LEAP In line with LEAP's focus on shaping the future of technology, Pakistan is presenting a unified digital vision that weaves together its advancements in AI, fintech, and digital solutions. A key component of this vision is the work undertaken by the National Center of Artificial Intelligence, a collaborative network of research labs across leading universities. The NCAI has already developed over 221 AI-driven solutions that are transforming sectors such as healthcare, media monitoring, and intelligent transportation. By integrating AI into its digital strategy, Pakistan strengthens its commitment to innovation and leadership in emerging tech. A flourishing startup ecosystem Pakistan's startup landscape is experiencing remarkable growth. With over $800 million raised in venture capital funding in recent years, the nation's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in its dynamic ecosystem. A youthful, tech-savvy population combined with forward-thinking policies and an investor-friendly climate has given rise to groundbreaking startups in fintech, edtech, AI, and e-commerce. At LEAP 2025 in Riyadh, Pakistan will not only showcase its vibrant startup ecosystem from its dedicated pavilion but is also expecting to generate approximately $15 million in business over the next year. A vision for digital empowerment Pakistan's commitment to digital empowerment spans all sectors. Government initiatives, led by the Ministry of IT and Telecom, are driving the adoption of smart technologies in education, healthcare, and public services, ensuring that the benefits of digital innovation reach every corner of society. This strategic approach is designed to create an ecosystem where technology acts as a catalyst for inclusive growth, enhanced quality of life, and sustainable development. By nurturing local talent and fostering innovation hubs, Pakistan is building a resilient digital economy that is ready to meet the challenges of tomorrow. Why Pakistan? Several factors make Pakistan an attractive hub for technology and innovation: A call to global innovators Pakistan is not only transforming its own digital landscape but is also building bridges with key partners like Saudi Arabia to catalyze regional innovation. This strategic collaboration is opening up exciting opportunities for cross-border investments, joint research projects, and talent exchanges that promise to accelerate technological advancements on both sides. At LEAP 2025 in Riyadh, Pakistan extends an open invitation to investors, innovators, and tech leaders to join in its extraordinary journey toward a digitally empowered future. With its robust ecosystem, forward-looking policies, and strong international partnerships, Pakistan is ready to shape the future of technology for generations to come.
