Introduction: PM Shehbaz Champions Digital Transformation
Pakistan has secured a landmark $700 million digital investment, reaffirming its commitment to becoming the next global technology hub. Speaking at the inaugural Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) Conference in Islamabad, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated, “Pakistan is not waiting for the future but shaping it.”
The conference welcomed over 75 foreign investors and CEOs from more than 50 global companies, making it one of Pakistan’s largest tech-focused economic events to date.
Building a Digital Pakistan
PM Shehbaz highlighted the government’s strong focus on building a digital economy through strategic public-private partnerships and a national push for IT infrastructure.
“We’re not just constructing a digital economy — we’re building a digital Pakistan,” said the Prime Minister.
The government is investing in federal and provincial IT parks, tech incubators, and robust research and development (R&D) programs to support startups and international investors.
Youth as the Engine of Innovation
A key highlight of the Prime Minister’s speech was the role of Pakistan’s youth, with over 100 million under the age of 30. He announced a collaboration with Huawei to train 200,000 young people in tech and digital skills.
“Our youth are the architects of our digital future,” PM Shehbaz noted.
This comes as part of a larger effort where over 300,000 IT professionals were trained this year under government initiatives.
Record Remittances Reflect Investor Confidence
In March, Pakistan received $4.1 billion in foreign remittances, the highest monthly total in its history. PM Shehbaz linked this to increasing global confidence in Pakistan’s digital capabilities and future economic direction.
“This is the time for global investors to partner with us — from using AI in agriculture to expanding exports through advanced technologies,” he said.
Global Praise for Pakistan’s Tech Ambitions
Delegates from nearly 50 countries attended the DFDI Conference, including senior executives, diplomats, and policy leaders. Notable attendees included:
- Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Youth Affairs, who emphasized Pakistan’s growing IT export capabilities.
- Deemah Alyahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization, who praised Pakistan’s “ambition and innovative spirit.”
With 142 million broadband users, 65% smartphone penetration, and a booming startup ecosystem, Pakistan is quickly positioning itself as a regional digital leader.
Surging Exports and Strong Digital Foundation
Abu Bakar, CEO of the Pakistan Software Export Board, projected that the country’s software exports will surpass $4 billion in 2025. This growth is driven by talent, innovation, and government support for tech entrepreneurship.
The government is also enhancing digital regulations to create a more investor-friendly environment, which was a key theme at the conference.
Conclusion: A New Digital Era for Pakistan
Pakistan is no longer on the sidelines of the tech world — it’s leading the charge. With visionary leadership, a young and skilled population, and growing international partnerships, the country is poised to become a global digital investment destination.
