Shaza Fatima promotes Pakistan’s growing tech sector in Riyadh -

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has highlighted Pakistan’s digital transformation efforts at LEAP 2026 in Riyadh, where she delivered a keynote address and inaugurated the Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion.

Speaking at the conference on Tuesday, the minister said Pakistan had built the foundation for its digital transformation through legislation, including the Digital Nation Pakistan Act. She said the law established the National Digital Commission and Pakistan Digital Authority to strengthen institutional ownership and implementation of the country’s digital agenda.

Shaza Fatima said the legislative framework had been supported by investments in connectivity and competitiveness, including a major 5G spectrum auction, the establishment of special technology zones and tax incentives for the IT sector.

She said Pakistan was now working to develop a national digital stack, supported by its young workforce, expanding digital infrastructure and efforts to strengthen political and economic stability. The minister said these factors were positioning Pakistan as an increasingly attractive destination for technology investment, with innovation, partnerships and smart investment at the centre of the government’s growth strategy.

Sharing lessons from Pakistan’s digital transformation, she said governments should focus on sound policymaking, strong institutions and creating an environment in which the private sector can lead economic growth. She stressed the importance of a central digital agency, measurable performance indicators and disciplined implementation for large-scale digital initiatives.

The minister also said the government’s role was to develop core digital infrastructure that would allow private businesses to innovate and build new services, adding that meaningful digital progress depended on strong public-private partnerships.

Shaza Fatima also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its digital partnership with Saudi Arabia. She said greater cooperation in digital innovation, skills development and emerging technologies could create new opportunities for economic growth in both countries.

Earlier, the minister inaugurated the Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion, which features 25 startups and 50 Pakistani technology companies showcasing solutions in artificial intelligence, automation and other digital technologies.

Pakistan’s participation in LEAP 2026 is aimed at promoting business-to-business partnerships, attracting international investment, expanding market access for technology companies and increasing technology exports while strengthening global business networks. – ERMD

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