Karachi: Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, outlined an ambitious digital future for Pakistan during her address at the inaugural dinner of ITCN Asia 2024, where she served as the Chief Guest. The event, held at the Expo Center in Karachi, marks the beginning of the three-day premier tech festival, which is set to attract significant global participation and investment.

According to Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Ms. Shaza highlighted the critical role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Pakistan’s socio-economic development. She announced plans to launch four new submarine fiber optic cables to improve global connectivity and detailed the government’s vision for an accelerated digitization ecosystem that aims to drive socio-economic development, expand the knowledge-based economy, and foster economic growth.

Ms. Shaza emphasized the government’s efforts in supporting the IT industry through policy development and initiatives aimed at removing barriers for small and medium enterprises. She also introduced the Digital Pakistan Policy, which aims to keep Pakistan at the forefront of technological advancement by transforming both government and private sectors.

The inauguration also covered the substantial growth in IT exports and the strategic focus on nurturing an innovation ecosystem through the Pakistan Startup Fund and the development of infrastructure like Software Technology Parks and Special Technology Zones.

The 25th edition of ITCN Asia is expected to play a pivotal role in positioning Pakistan as an emerging tech hub, with projections of attracting over $500 million in investments and participation from 750 leading global and local companies.