Pakistan embraces tech advancements at ITCN 2024

The Expo Center in Lahore, Pakistan, buzzed with excitement as the 24th edition of the Information Technology Commerce Network (ITCN) commenced. Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, graced the occasion as the chief guest, highlighting the government's commitment to advancing Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).

In her address, Minister Shaza Fatima emphasized that the govt is actively facilitating flagship projects like Special Technology Zones (STZs) and implementing a national fiberization plan to ensure widespread access to high-speed broadband internet. She stressed the importance of creating a conducive environment for both local and foreign IT companies and investors, with the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) playing a pivotal role in building confidence and facilitating business in the IT sector.

Minister Shaza Fatima urged IT companies to enhance their global cooperation, supported by govt initiatives, to position Pakistan as a prominent tech hub regionally and globally. She also highlighted Pakistan's significant role in the IT ecosystem through its membership in the Digital Cooperation Organization.

Speaking at the event, Secretary General of the Digital Cooperation Organization, Deemah Al Yahya, commended Pakistan's proactive approach to digital transformation, predicting a substantial boost to the economy by 2030 through these initiatives.

The gathering also featured insightful addresses from prominent figures such as Chairman Pasha Mohammad Zohaib, Country Education Lead at Microsoft, Gibran Jamshed, CEO of Ignite, Adeel Aizaz Sheikh, Chairman of Netsol, Saleem Ghori, Secretary General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce Industries and Agriculture. Yusuf Hasan Khalvi, and Vice President of E-Commerce Gateway, Mohammad Umair Nizam.