Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Tuesday said the government is ramping up efforts to attract more foreign investment into Pakistan’s IT sector while fortifying the nation’s cybersecurity framework.
Speaking at the Next-Gen Cyber Resilience Workshop and Telecom Cybersecurity Awards 2024-25, she highlighted digitization as a key government priority, with the recently approved Digital Pakistan Act serving as a cornerstone of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision for a digitally advanced nation. The initiative, she said, will have far-reaching benefits for the economy, governance, and society, with strong cybersecurity at its core.
“Once everyone’s digital identity is created and data is digitized, securing that data becomes essential, as it is the most valuable asset,” she said, assuring that both personal and national cybersecurity would be strictly protected.
Khawaja praised the efforts of the PTA, NADRA, and SECP in bolstering cyber defenses, noting Pakistan’s 2024 score of 96.7% in the International Telecommunication Union’s Cybersecurity Index — a result of collective capacity building, including training over 3,000 young people in cybersecurity over the past year. The program will be expanded to meet future needs and create more jobs.
She emphasized the urgency of developing digital skills to meet the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Connectivity is being enhanced through two existing submarine cables, with additional links planned, and foreign investors — including from China — showing interest.
Progress is also underway on the National Fiberization Policy, with right-of-way hurdles being addressed. The CDA has already removed such charges, while discussions continue with the NHA and Pakistan Railways. An amendment to the Pakistan Telecommunication Act will introduce an online portal to streamline related processes.
Upcoming spectrum auctions will drive 4G expansion and pave the way for 5G, improving service quality. The government is also pushing for affordable access to smartphones and laptops so youth can fully participate in the digital economy.
She added that Pakistan had demonstrated technological superiority, alongside traditional defense, during the recent conflict with India, earning global recognition for its cybersecurity units and young talent.
