Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja arrived in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to take part in high level discussions centered on strengthening regional cooperation in digital transformation and technology development. Her visit comes amid growing interest among Central Asian and South Asian countries to collaborate on policies and initiatives that support advancements in ICT, digital public services and innovation focused growth. According to MoITT, the minister’s participation reflects Pakistan’s intention to engage more actively in regional platforms where member states share experiences and identify opportunities for collective progress in areas shaped by rapid technological change.
The meetings in Bishkek are expected to bring together government representatives, technology experts and institutional leaders from multiple countries who are focusing on frameworks that promote digital integration across the region. Pakistan’s delegation will outline ongoing progress under Digital Pakistan, including the development of digital infrastructure, expansion of broadband coverage, introduction of cloud governance models and support for public sector adoption of technology. Shaza Fatima Khawaja is also scheduled to share Pakistan’s experience in digital skills development and its work on enabling innovation within government processes. According to officials, the discussions will help identify where regional cooperation can support knowledge exchange, improve cross border connectivity and encourage investment in emerging technology sectors.
MoITT noted that Pakistan sees value in engaging with regional partners to address shared challenges such as cybersecurity preparedness, access to digital services in remote areas and the modernization of public administration systems. As countries in the region navigate similar transitions towards technology enabled governance, collaboration offers an opportunity to streamline learning and strengthen national ecosystems through combined expertise. Pakistan’s participation in these meetings also reinforces its role in supporting initiatives that enhance digital trade routes, improve interoperability and expand opportunities for collaboration between public institutions and private technology companies across borders.
The visit is part of broader diplomatic and technological engagement being pursued by MoITT to build relationships that align with national priorities in digital transformation. Officials emphasized that international cooperation is essential as Pakistan continues to scale its ICT programs and introduce new technologies across government departments. Through interactions in Bishkek, the ministry aims to explore further partnerships, highlight Pakistan’s progress and understand regional strategies that can complement domestic initiatives. As the meetings proceed, Pakistan’s delegation is expected to contribute to discussions on digital policy harmonization, innovation driven economic development and long term cooperation among countries working towards stronger technology adoption and digital readiness.
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