Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Meets STC Officials to Discuss Collaboration in Fiber, Cloud, Cybersecurity, and FinTech

Riyadh by IMTISAL BUKHARI

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, held a high-level meeting with officials from the Saudi Telecom Company (STC) to explore collaboration in Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, including fiber networks, cloud services, cybersecurity, and FinTech.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication on Friday, the meeting focused on business opportunities and potential investments in Pakistan’s growing digital economy.

The discussions also revolved around forming a partnership with STC under Pakistan’s “Connect Pakistan 2030” policy. Pakistan’s IT sector—with $3.8 billion in exports and over 200 million mobile users—was presented as a highly attractive destination for foreign investment.

The meeting also featured in-depth talks on FinTech innovation and low-cost cross-border payment solutions, highlighting the importance of financial inclusion and digital transformation.

Minister Shaza Fatima emphasized Pakistan’s strategic role in becoming a regional digital transit hub, connecting the GCC, Asia, and Africa. The conversation further explored partnership opportunities in submarine cables and other digital connectivity projects.

Saudi Telecom Company (STC), the largest telecom operator in Saudi Arabia and the GCC, plays a leading role in advancing the Vision 2030 digital agenda. The discussions are seen as a significant step toward strengthening digital ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.