IT minister showcases digital transformation in Riyadh

Pakistan’s information technology minister used the LEAP 2026 conference in Riyadh to present the country as an emerging digital investment destination, arguing that a national digital stack and a young workforce could speed up transformation.

Shaza Fatima Khawaja said political and economic stability, along with expanding digital infrastructure, had strengthened Pakistan’s position in the region. “These steps have positioned the country as one of the region’s most attractive investment destinations,” she said in a keynote address at a session titled “How We Built a Digital Nation.”

Khawaja said Pakistan had placed its digital transformation on a legal footing through the Digital Nation Pakistan Act. The law established the National Digital Commission and Pakistan Digital Authority, creating what she described as institutional ownership of the process. She said the legal framework had been matched by investments in connectivity and competitiveness, including a major 5G spectrum auction, special technology zones and lower taxation for the IT industry.

The minister presented policymaking and strong institutions as the foundation for private-sector growth. She said a dedicated central digital agency could turn policy into execution, while measurable key performance indicators would keep large-scale transformation focused. The state, she added, should build core digital infrastructure that allows private companies to innovate and expand. She also reaffirmed Pakistan’s intention to deepen cooperation with Saudi Arabia in digital innovation, capacity building and emerging technologies.

Earlier, Khawaja inaugurated the Tech Destination Pakistan Pavilion. The pavilion features 25 startups and 50 Pakistani technology companies presenting solutions in artificial intelligence, automation and other digital fields. Pakistan’s participation at LEAP is intended to build business partnerships, attract international investment, expand overseas market access, strengthen technology networks and create new export opportunities.

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These steps have positioned the country as one of the region’s most attractive investment destinations.