IT minister showcases digital transformation in Riyadh

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, addressed attendees at the LEAP 2026 conference in Riyadh, spotlighting Pakistan's strides in digital transformation. She emphasized the pivotal role of innovation, robust institutions, and private-sector leadership in steering the nation's digital growth.

Highlighting Pakistan's young workforce, political stability, and expanding digital infrastructure, Khawaja asserted that these factors have positioned the country as a top investment destination in the region. Speaking at the session "How We Built a Digital Nation," the minister formally inaugurated the Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion, showcasing 25 startups and 50 leading Pakistani technology firms presenting cutting-edge solutions in AI, automation, and digital technologies.

She reiterated that the government's strategy to foster growth is anchored in innovation, partnerships, and smart investments. Pakistan's digital transformation is anchored by the Digital Nation Pakistan Act, which established the National Digital Commission and Pakistan Digital Authority to ensure institutional ownership. The legal framework was supported by investments in connectivity and competitiveness, including the country's largest 5G spectrum auction, creation of special technology zones, and reduced taxation for the IT sector.

Khawaja emphasized that Pakistan achieved its digital goals through sound policymaking and strong institutions, creating an environment where the private sector can drive growth. She stressed the necessity of a dedicated central digital agency to convert policy into effective action, while maintaining discipline and measurable KPIs to keep the transformation focused and on track.

Reiterating Pakistan's commitment to enhancing its partnership with Saudi Arabia, the minister expressed optimism that ongoing collaboration in digital innovation, capacity building, and emerging technologies would yield new avenues for shared growth and prosperity between the two nations. The minister's keynote address also coincided with Pakistan's debut at LEAP 2026, aiming to foster B2B partnerships, attract international investment, broaden market access for the country's technology sector, strengthen international business networks, and create opportunities for technology exports.