Reliable and affordable connectivity will continue to be essential for economic growth and public services.
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Ali Zardari said the federal government, in collaboration with provincial governments, remains committed to policies that expand digital access and improve connectivity across the country.
In a message on the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, he said: “I extend my greetings to the telecom community of Pakistan and all those working to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure.”
“This year’s theme, Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World, reflects the growing importance of reliable and accessible connectivity in everyday life. Today, digital networks support education, healthcare, commerce, banking and public services.
For many citizens, especially those living in remote and undeserved areas, connectivity now determines access to opportunities and information,” he added.
He said: “Pakistan’s telecom sector continues to contribute significantly to national development. During fiscal year 2024-25, the sector attracted $838 million in investments and generated revenues of Rs 1,075 billion. Pakistan today has over 205 million telecom subscribers and over 161 million broadband users, supported by an expanding fiber optic network, submarine cable systems and nationwide mobile coverage.”
“The successful conclusion of Pakistan’s IMT/5G spectrum auction in March 2026 marked an important step towards the country’s digital future. The auction secured $509.6 million for the national treasury and expanded spectrum availability for mobile operators, creating the foundation for faster and more reliable next-generation services,” he added.
He said: “Through the Universal Service Fund, voice and broadband services have reached millions of people in previously unserved areas. Efforts are also underway to advance fiber deployment, promote investment, and finalize satellite communications regulations for remote regions.”
He appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, mobile operators and all stakeholders working to strengthen Pakistan’s digital ecosystem.”
“Reliable and affordable connectivity will continue to be essential for economic growth, public services and broader access to opportunity for all Pakistanis,” he concluded.
