President Asif Ali Zardari stated that the federal government, in partnership with provincial administrations, remains dedicated to initiatives aimed at improving digital access and improving connectivity across Pakistan.
In a statement on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, he expressed, “I extend my greetings to Pakistan’s telecommunications community and all those working to strengthen the country’s digital infrastructure.”
He further stated that this year’s theme, Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World, underscores the increasing significance of dependable and accessible connectivity in daily life.
Presently, digital networks facilitate education, healthcare, commerce, banking, and public services. For many citizens, particularly those residing in remote and underserved regions, connectivity now dictates access to opportunities and information.
He further noted, “Pakistan’s telecommunications sector continues to contribute significantly to national development. During FY 2024-25, the sector attracted USD 838 million in investment and generated revenues of PKR 1,075 billion. Pakistan today has more than 205 million telecom subscribers and over 161 million broadband users, supported by an expanding fibre optic network, submarine cable systems and nationwide mobile coverage.”
President Zardari continued, “The successful conclusion of Pakistan’s IMT/5G Spectrum Auction in March 2026 marked an important step toward the country’s digital future. The auction secured USD 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 concluded by observing that the Universal Service Fund, broadband and voice services have been extended to millions in previously unserved areas. Initiatives are also in progress to enhance fibre deployment, encourage investment, and finalise regulations for satellite communications in remote locales.
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