Pakistan has officially launched its inaugural Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) Conference, with global participation aimed at strengthening the nation’s position as a hub for digital investment and technological innovation. The landmark event, which begins today, has drawn attendees from over 45 countries including China, Russia, Saudi Arabia, and several South American nations.
Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, shared details of the event in an informal conversation with reporters, highlighting the extensive international interest in the conference. More than 75 foreign investors and over 50 CEOs from major international companies are attending. They are joined by delegations, investors, and technology leaders seeking new opportunities in Pakistan’s fast-growing digital economy.
Global Spotlight on Pakistani Tech Talent
Over 100 Pakistani IT companies and startups are taking part in the DFDI Conference, showcasing their products, services, and ideas to a room full of global investors. From innovative fintech solutions to AI-driven platforms, local entrepreneurs are being given a platform to present their offerings to potential backers. The initiative is expected to strengthen investor confidence and drive capital into Pakistan’s tech ecosystem.
In honor of the visiting foreign delegations, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has hosted a special dinner. Additionally, international guests are scheduled to tour the National Technology Park, a major component of Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and a symbol of the country’s ambition to emerge as a regional tech hub.
Private Sector Partnerships in Focus
One of the central themes of the conference is enhancing cooperation with the private sector to facilitate and encourage digital investment. The government has reiterated its commitment to streamlining business processes, simplifying regulatory frameworks, and ensuring investor-friendly policies that align with global standards.
The Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) is attending the event as the chief guest. Pakistan is poised to assume the presidency of the DCO in 2026, and the conference reflects the country’s growing leadership role in digital diplomacy. Federal Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja praised Saudi Arabia’s support in advancing DCO’s goals and pledged deeper collaboration to strengthen the organization’s mission across member countries.
Shehbaz Sharif to Announce Investment Commitments
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to unveil several key investment commitments made during the conference. According to official sources, multiple agreements have already been finalized ahead of the event, signaling a wave of investor confidence in Pakistan’s digital sector. The government plans to bring in further investment over the next year, building on the momentum of the DFDI Conference.
Officials say that these deals span a wide range of sectors, including cloud computing, cybersecurity, digital payments, health tech, e-commerce, and business process outsourcing (BPO). The focus is not just on financial investment, but also on knowledge transfer, skill development, and technology integration.
Digital Transformation and Investor Facilitation
Alongside the conference, Pakistan is accelerating its efforts to digitally transform its economy. The government is moving forward with the National Digital Transformation project, which aims to integrate cutting-edge technologies into government services, reduce red tape, and create a seamless business environment.
A key initiative under this vision is the launch of a Business Facilitation Center in Islamabad, designed to serve as a one-stop solution for entrepreneurs and investors. This center will centralize services, provide business registration support, and offer technical assistance to both local and foreign stakeholders. Similar centers are planned in other major cities as part of a broader digital governance reform.
Minister Shaza Fatima noted that the government is actively working to remove hurdles faced by businesses and foreign investors. We are committed to making Pakistan a destination of choice for digital investment, she stated. The DFDI Conference is just the beginning of a new era.
A New Chapter for Digital Pakistan
The DFDI Conference stands as a major milestone in Pakistan’s quest to modernize its economy through digital innovation. With a strong turnout from global investors, top executives, and government officials, the event is a testament to Pakistan’s untapped potential in the global tech arena.
This initiative could pave the way for thousands of new jobs, increased exports, and long-term economic stability. As global attention turns toward Pakistan’s digital journey, all eyes are now on the outcomes of this groundbreaking conference.
