Reliable and affordable connectivity will continue to be essential for economic growth, public services
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Ali Zardari said the federal government, in partnership with provincial governments, remained committed to policies that expand digital access and improve connectivity across the country.
In an announcement on World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, he said: “I salute Pakistan’s telecommunication community 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. Digital networks today support education, healthcare, commerce, banking and public services.
For many citizens, especially those living in remote and underserved areas, connectivity now determines access to opportunity and information,” he added.
He said, “Pakistan’s telecommunications sector continues to contribute significantly to national development. During the fiscal year 2024-2025, the sector attracted $838 million in investment and generated revenues of Rs.1,075 billion. Pakistan today has more than 205 million telecommunications subscribers and over 161 million broadband users, supported by an expanding nationwide optical fiber network and a submarine fiber network.”
“The successful completion of Pakistan’s IMT/5G Spectrum Auction in March 2026 marked an important step towards the country’s digital future. The auction secured USD 509.6 million for the national exchequer and expanded spectrum availability for mobile operators, laying the foundation for faster and more reliable next-generation services,” he added.
He said: “Through the Universal Service Fund, broadband and voice services have reached millions of people in previously unserved areas. There are also efforts to promote fiber deployment, encourage investment and finalize rules for satellite communications 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 remain essential for economic growth, public services and wider access to opportunities for all Pakistanis,” he concluded.
