Latest news with #ShanghaiSpace
Express Tribune
3 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
Govt to highlight digital policy
Shaza also revealed that Chinese satellite internet firms, including Galaxy Space and Shanghai Space, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. PHOTO: APP Listen to article Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has reached Shanghai to represent Pakistan at the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC), a major global forum focused on the future of AI and digital innovation. Khawaja is leading Pakistan's official delegation at the conference, where she is expected to articulate the country's digital policy priorities and share its growing interest in emerging technologies. Her participation reflects Pakistan's broader ambition to position itself as an active player in the global AI arena. According to an official statement released on Friday, the ITT minister will present Pakistan's digital transformation roadmap, which aims to integrate advanced technologies like AI into key sectors to improve economic performance and public services. Her presence at WAIC is expected to raise Pakistan's profile on the international tech stage and promote opportunities for cross-border collaboration. The conference brings together government officials, industry leaders, and tech experts from around the world to discuss AI-driven development. Prior to her departure, the minister held a meeting with Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong at the IT Ministry. The two officials reviewed ongoing collaboration in the digital sector and reaffirmed their countries' commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in emerging technologies. Key areas discussed included smart city projects, AI initiatives, and broader technical integration. Khawaja outlined Pakistan's vision for a digitally empowered society, driven by innovation, while Ambassador Jiang assured China's continued support for Pakistan's digital growth through experience-sharing and targeted cooperation. The meeting also explored future joint ventures and knowledge-sharing opportunities in the digital economy, especially in capacity-building, to support inclusive development and strengthen digital infrastructure. Both sides stressed the importance of using digital technology as a tool for equitable growth, and pledged to deepen collaboration. WITH ADDITIONAL INPUT FROM APP
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
AI policy to be approved soon, says Shaza
Shaza also revealed that Chinese satellite internet firms, including Galaxy Space and Shanghai Space, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. PHOTO: APP Information Technology and Telecommunication Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja said on Wednesday that Pakistan's AI policy, which was finalised after a year of consultations at home and abroad, is likely to be approved soon. Speaking at a seminar at Quaid-i-Azam University, the minister reaffirmed the government's strong commitment to implementing the AI policy. She urged all stakeholders to play an active role in turning the policy into reality. "Our main focus now is on putting the policy into action," she said. "We want everyone to join this journey and help bring the ideas to life."
Express Tribune
02-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Shaza Fatima says Starlink launch on track for December
Shaza also revealed that Chinese satellite internet firms, including Galaxy Space and Shanghai Space, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. PHOTO: APP Listen to article Minister of State for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja has dismissed speculation over licencing delays for Starlink, stating that the satellite internet provider is on track to launch in Pakistan by December 2025. Speaking informally to reporters on Friday, the minister said that a consultant has been appointed by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (SUPARCO) to draft regulatory frameworks for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, with the rulebook expected to be finalised by June. 'There is no delay in Starlink's licensing. The process is ongoing and structured,' she said, noting that Starlink has remained in contact with Pakistani authorities and is expected to spend the next five to six months building infrastructure ahead of its operational debut. Shaza also revealed that Chinese satellite internet firms, including Galaxy Space and Shanghai Space, have expressed interest in entering the Pakistani market. However, she clarified that no formal applications have yet been submitted. 'Our space policy is open and non-exclusive,' she added. 'We will facilitate any company that meets the criteria and comes forward.' Addressing the broader telecom sector, the minister acknowledged financial challenges, citing an average revenue per user (ARPU) of Rs270, the lowest in the region. She attributed the strain to currency fluctuations and rising electricity prices. The minister noted that the upcoming spectrum auction could help improve telecom services and confirmed that companies had submitted budget proposals for the next fiscal year, which are being reviewed in coordination with the Ministry of Finance. On the ongoing shutdown of social media platform X in Pakistan, Shaza rejected public claims that the move curtails freedom of expression. 'X has not engaged with the IT Ministry since the ban,' she stated, suggesting that any communication has likely occurred only with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA). 'X is not in compliance with Pakistani laws,' she added, while noting that other platforms remain in contact and respond to government requests.
