Pakistan’s telecommunication sector took center stage at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, where Chairman of PTA, Major General (R) Hafeez Ur Rehman, HI (M), held a series of high-profile meetings with global telecom leaders. These discussions aimed at strengthening digital collaboration, enhancing regulatory frameworks, and fostering international partnerships to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation. The engagements underscored the country’s commitment to expanding its telecom infrastructure and ensuring a resilient digital future.
Chairman PTA engaged with the leadership of Telenor Asia to discuss Pakistan’s evolving telecom landscape. The meeting with Mr. Håkon Bruaset Kjell, Head of Investment Management and Deputy Head of Asia at Telenor Asia, and Mr. Marius Gjennæs, Head of Investment Management for Pakistan and Bangladesh, focused on identifying opportunities to enhance Pakistan’s digital ecosystem. Telenor Asia’s executives acknowledged the progressive regulatory environment facilitated by PTA, which has been instrumental in driving investment and innovation in the telecom sector. With the Pakistani government’s strong emphasis on broadband expansion and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, Telenor Asia expressed interest in continued collaboration to improve connectivity and digital access across the country.
Further reinforcing Pakistan’s global telecom standing, Chairman PTA met with Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The discussion revolved around Pakistan’s digital advancements and its regulatory excellence, earning it recognition as a G5 country—one of the highest designations for telecom regulatory standards. The ITU Secretary-General acknowledged Pakistan’s role in fostering a robust digital ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation in driving telecommunications growth. The meeting also included an invitation for ITU’s leadership to visit Pakistan and explore collaborative opportunities, solidifying the country’s position as a leader in digital governance and regulatory innovation.
In another pivotal meeting, Chairman PTA engaged with VEON Group’s top executives, including Mr. Kaan Terzioğlu, Group Chief Executive Officer, and Sir Brandon Lewis CBE, Member of the Board of Directors. The conversation centered on advancing digital financial services, strengthening network efficiency, and leveraging new technologies to support Pakistan’s growing telecom sector. VEON leadership lauded PTA’s efforts in creating a pro-investment regulatory framework, which has encouraged foreign direct investment in the country’s digital landscape. The discussions also explored potential partnerships to expand fintech solutions, providing greater financial inclusion to millions of Pakistanis. By integrating digital financial services with telecom infrastructure, the collaboration between PTA and VEON aims to drive financial empowerment and ensure seamless access to digital banking.
These high-level engagements at MWC 2025 reflect Pakistan’s proactive approach to shaping the future of its telecommunications industry. Under the leadership of PTA, the country continues to foster an environment that promotes investment, technological advancements, and regulatory excellence. The commitment to enhancing digital connectivity, improving network quality, and facilitating the adoption of emerging technologies positions Pakistan as a key player in the global digital economy. By strengthening international partnerships and leveraging innovative solutions, Pakistan’s telecom sector is poised for sustained growth, paving the way for a technologically advanced and digitally inclusive future.
