ISLAMABAD by IMTISAL BUKHARI
Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima, delivered a keynote address at the prestigious global technology exhibition, GITEX Dubai 2025, representing Pakistan on the international stage. In her speech, she highlighted Pakistan’s rapid transformation into a new global model in digital technology, driven by visionary leadership and strategic reforms.
Pakistan’s Digital Transformation Underway
The Minister emphasized that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan has established a strong, integrated digital framework through key initiatives such as the “Digital Nation Pakistan Act” and the formation of the National Digital Authority.
She proudly announced that Pakistan has successfully laid 211,473 kilometers of fiber optic cable, with over 20 data centers now fully operational across the country, forming the backbone of the nation’s digital infrastructure.
AI: A Core Pillar of Future Strategy
Addressing the importance of artificial intelligence, Shaza Fatima stated, “No AI initiative can succeed without robust connectivity.” She outlined the country’s ambitious National AI Policy, which aims by 2030 to develop:
- 1,000 AI-based products
- 50,000 citizen-level AI projects
- 1 million trained AI professionals
Recognition on the Global Stage
She further shared that Pakistan has achieved notable improvements in international digital development rankings:
- 14% improvement in the ITU’s ICT Development Index
- 14-place jump in the UN E-Government Development Index
Shaza also addressed the growing digital inclusion of women, highlighting that the percentage of women using mobile internet has risen significantly, bringing 8 million new female users online.
$700 Million Investment Secured at DFDI 2025
A major highlight of her speech was the announcement that $700 million worth of investment agreements were finalized during DFDI 2025. Pakistan is now actively inviting global partners to invest in:
- 5G infrastructure
- Fiber optic networks
- AI innovation hubs
- Smart device manufacturing
- Special Technology Zones (STZs)
Call for Global Partnerships
Concluding her address, Shaza Fatima affirmed Pakistan’s readiness for autonomous growth in future technologies and welcomed global companies, investors, and tech leaders to become part of Pakistan’s fast-growing digital ecosystem.
“Pakistan is no longer just a participant in the global tech race — we are shaping the track,” she asserted.