Riyadh: Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, emphasized Pakistan’s digital transformation efforts during a keynote address at the LEAP 2026 conference in Riyadh. The Minister also inaugurated the Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion, marking a significant step in promoting the country’s technology sector on an international platform.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Khawaja highlighted the legislative framework supporting Pakistan’s digital journey, anchored by the Digital Nation Pakistan Act. This act led to the creation of the National Digital Commission and Pakistan Digital Authority, ensuring institutional oversight. The Minister detailed investments in connectivity and competitiveness, including a major 5G spectrum auction, establishment of special technology zones, and reduced taxation for the IT sector.
Minister Khawaja attributed the digital transformation to the vision of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and support from the Special Investment Facilitation Council. The council is chaired by the Prime Minister and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, with provincial chief executives participating. She noted that Pakistan is developing a national digital stack, leveraging its young workforce and expanding infrastructure to become a leading investment destination. The government’s strategy focuses on innovation, partnerships, and smart investment.
Discussing the role of government, the Minister stressed the importance of sound policymaking and strong institutions, creating an environment conducive to private sector-led growth. She emphasized the need for a central digital agency to execute policies, maintaining focus through discipline and measurable KPIs. The state’s role, she noted, is to build core digital infrastructure, enabling private sector innovation.
In conclusion, Minister Khawaja expressed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Saudi Arabia, confident that collaboration in digital innovation and emerging technologies will foster shared prosperity. The Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion, featuring 25 startups and 50 leading technology companies, aims to enhance B2B partnerships, attract investment, and expand global market access for Pakistan’s tech sector.