Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that $700 million in Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) commitments will unlock Pakistani youth’s potential. Speaking at the Digital FDI Forum in Islamabad, he expressed confidence in Pakistan becoming an IT leader. He assured foreign investors of full facilitation, emphasizing opportunities in IT and artificial intelligence (AI).
Record Remittances Reflect Economic Growth
The Prime Minister highlighted Pakistan’s record $4.1 billion remittances in March, a historic achievement. He credited the youth’s hard work domestically and abroad for this milestone. Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the government’s commitment to IT advancement, including IT parks, incubation centers, and skills training programs. A partnership with Huawei will train 200,000 youth annually.
Government’s IT and AI Promotion Plans
Shehbaz Sharif outlined massive initiatives to boost IT and AI, positioning Pakistan as a global tech player. He emphasized digitization’s role in economic growth and invited investors to support agriculture, industries, and job creation. The PM stressed that Pakistan’s talented youth are key to driving innovation and attracting global investments in the digital economy.
Also Read: Water Level in 3 Pakistani Dams Goes Dangerously Low
DCO Secretary General Praises Pakistan’s Digital Readiness
Deemah AlYahya, Secretary General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), declared Pakistan ready to lead in the global digital economy. She noted the forum’s 1,000 investors, innovators, and policymakers as proof of Pakistan’s rising digital leadership. AlYahya’s remarks reinforced international confidence in Pakistan’s tech potential and investment-friendly policies.
IT Minister Details Digital Transformation Efforts
IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja elaborated on Pakistan’s digital transformation initiatives. A national AI policy is underway, and IT exports grew by 25% in nine months. The government’s cashless economy vision aims for easier, transparent transactions. Fatima highlighted Pakistan’s 48% surge in mobile manufacturing, producing 31 million devices annually, showcasing industrial growth.
Digital Public Infrastructure Revolution
Shaza Fatima emphasized building robust digital public infrastructure to revolutionize payments. The government digitized multiple departments swiftly, enhancing efficiency. She reiterated commitments to a digital economy, governance, and society. These efforts align with global trends, ensuring Pakistan remains competitive in the evolving tech landscape while fostering inclusive economic growth.
Conclusion: DFDI Pledged to Empower Pakistan’s Youth
With $700 million in DFDI pledges, Pakistan is poised for a digital revolution. Government initiatives, youth empowerment, and foreign investments will drive IT and AI advancements. The nation’s record remittances and tech growth signal a promising future, positioning Pakistan as a key player in the global digital economy.