Karachi, Pakistan – Visa (NYSE: V), a global leader in digital payments, successfully hosted its first-ever market-focused client event in Pakistan, Visa Connect Karachi. Held last week, the event brought together over 200 participants, including senior officials from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and key figures from the country’s financial industry. This inaugural event marked a significant milestone for Visa in the North Africa, Levant, and Pakistan (NALP) region, underscoring the company’s commitment to driving digital transformation in the country.
The event featured in-depth discussions led by regional experts, highlighting emerging trends in digital payments, AI-driven financial solutions, and new opportunities for business growth. A high-profile panel comprising government representatives and banking executives also explored the role of public-private partnerships in advancing Pakistan’s financial ecosystem.
Umar Khan, Visa’s Country Manager for Pakistan and Afghanistan, emphasized the company’s dedication to fostering innovation in the country’s payment sector. “Pakistan is accelerating its digitization journey, and Visa Connect Karachi is a testament to our commitment to supporting clients in navigating this evolving landscape. This platform allowed industry leaders to share insights, engage in meaningful conversations, and explore solutions tailored to Pakistan’s digital economy. We are excited about the progress that these discussions will drive for the industry,” he stated.
The significance of the event was further reinforced by Mr. Saleem Ullah, Deputy Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, who highlighted the importance of such industry-wide collaborations. “Visa Connect Karachi provided a valuable platform to engage with senior financial leaders and discuss critical advancements and challenges within our sector. By strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors, we can drive impactful innovation and contribute to a more inclusive financial ecosystem in Pakistan,” he remarked.
Visa’s presence in Pakistan has been instrumental in shaping the digital payments landscape, with initiatives focused on enhancing financial inclusion, promoting cashless transactions, and leveraging AI-driven solutions to create seamless payment experiences. The company’s latest event further solidifies its role in supporting Pakistan’s transition towards a more robust and digitally empowered economy.