Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has said the present government is taking steps for promoting Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in the country as growth of ICT is a vital factor for the progress.
She was addressing a Roundtable on IT and Digitalisation with the Swedish tech companies held here at Ministry of IT and Telecom on Thursday.
Ambassador of Sweden to Pakistan Henrik Persson and representatives of Swedish companies including Ericsson, Need Insights, LCC/Talkpool, Quixel, Saab, and Mahaana Wealth Ltd were present on the occasion, according to an official press release.
Shaza Fatima said the Ministry of IT and Telecom is working on fulfilling Digital Pakistan vision through multiple cross sectoral initiatives including laws, policies and rules and regulations for the enablement of true digital landscape.
She said Digital Pakistan Policy is paving way for taking Digital transformation to the next level. She said the government is committed for provision of affordable and quality ICT services to masses.
Shaza Fatima said atmosphere for investment in Pakistan is conducive. She said Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is facilitating investment in Pakistan, urging Swedish tech companies to invest in IT and Telecom sector of Pakistan.
Later, detailed views were exchanged with the Swedish delegation on digitalization, connectivity, IT and Telecom infrastructure, IT exports, startups, e-governance, e-rozgar, gaming and animation, and skills development.
The Swedish tech companies’ representatives proposed that like Sweden Pakistan needed to expedite steps on policy level in IT sector. They said Pakistan needed to produce skilled people in IT field, adding that Swedish companies are ready to give training to Pakistanis in IT field.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador of Sweden Mr Henrik Persson said Sweden and Pakistan were enjoying good relations, and Sweden is keen to enhance cooperation with Pakistan in the field of IT and Telecommunication.