Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, showcased Pakistan's digital transformation strategy at the LEAP 2026 conference in Riyadh. In her keynote address, she emphasized the importance of innovation, strong institutions, and private-sector leadership as pivotal elements in driving the country's digital growth, according to Dawn.
Key Initiatives and Strategies
During her address, Khawaja highlighted the development of a national digital stack, which, combined with Pakistan's young workforce and expanding digital infrastructure, positions the country as an attractive destination for technology investment. This initiative is supported by institutional frameworks including the National Digital Commission and Pakistan Digital Authority to ensure ownership, as reported by Pakistan Times.
The minister also underscored the significance of investments in connectivity and competitiveness, including one of the largest 5G spectrum auctions, the creation of special technology zones, and incentives for the IT industry. These measures are designed to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistan's IT sector and attract international investment, according to PhoneWorld.
Role of Government and Private Sector
Khawaja stressed that the government's role is to build core digital infrastructure that empowers the private sector to innovate. She noted that genuine digital progress is achieved through partnerships between the public and private sectors. The government's approach to growth remains anchored in innovation, partnerships, and smart investment, as highlighted by Dawn.
She also emphasized the importance of having a dedicated central digital agency capable of translating policies into practical implementation, with measurable key performance indicators to keep large-scale digital programs focused and on track, as reported by Pakistan Times.
International Collaboration
In her address, Khawaja reaffirmed Pakistan's resolve to deepen its partnership with Saudi Arabia, expressing confidence that continued collaboration in digital innovation, capacity-building, and emerging technologies would open new avenues for shared growth and prosperity for both nations. The Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion, inaugurated by Khawaja, featured 25 startups and 50 leading Pakistani technology companies showcasing innovative solutions in AI, automation, and digital technologies, according to PhoneWorld.
Conclusion
Shaza Fatima Khawaja's participation at LEAP 2026 underscores Pakistan's commitment to becoming a digital nation through strategic investments and partnerships. Her leadership highlights the critical role of women in driving technological advancements and shaping the future of digital economies.