Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has held a focused and forward-looking meeting with representatives of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) to explore new avenues for collaboration in Pakistan’s technology and digital development landscape. The engagement marks an important step in the government’s ongoing push to modernize the country’s digital ecosystem and expand access to emerging technologies that can drive economic progress.
During the meeting, both sides discussed a range of opportunities through which Pakistan and the Islamic Development Bank could work together to strengthen ongoing and upcoming initiatives in connectivity, digital inclusion, and innovation-led growth. The conversation centered on the shared objective of creating a more connected and technologically empowered Pakistan, where digital tools and services can help bridge socioeconomic gaps and support long-term transformation.
Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted the government’s commitment to placing digital development at the heart of national progress. She emphasized that Pakistan is actively working to create an environment that nurtures technological advancement, supports young talent, and enhances the efficiency of public services through modern digital infrastructure. The meeting with the Islamic Development Bank, she noted, aligns with this vision and opens doors for meaningful partnerships.
The Islamic Development Bank expressed interest in supporting initiatives that could uplift Pakistan’s digital framework, including investment opportunities, capacity-building programs, and technology-enabling projects that could strengthen digital readiness across various sectors. The bank acknowledged Pakistan’s growing potential in the global technology arena and conveyed its willingness to contribute to initiatives that promote innovation, digital accessibility, and sustainable growth.
Discussions also touched on the importance of building resilient digital networks, enhancing cybersecurity readiness, and ensuring that technological transformation reaches underserved regions of the country. The Minister reiterated that inclusive digital expansion is a national priority, and collaborations with global development institutions play an integral role in making digital access more equitable for citizens.
The engagement was described as constructive, with both parties agreeing to continue exploring structured pathways for collaboration in the months ahead. The government aims to leverage such partnerships to support its broader digital agenda, including initiatives in emerging technologies, e-governance, digital skills training, IT exports, and entrepreneurship enablement.
As Pakistan accelerates its shift toward a technology-driven future, partnerships with international financial and development institutions are expected to provide both the strategic direction and the technical support needed to achieve sustainable progress. The meeting between the IT Ministry and the Islamic Development Bank reflects this momentum and underscores the growing recognition of digital transformation as a key pillar of national development.
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