Strengthening Pakistan’s position in the global digital landscape, PTCL Group, comprising Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and Ufone 4G, has entered a long-term collaboration with GSMA by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at GITEX Global 2025. The partnership aims to drive API innovation and create standardized, secure integration channels for telecom and other industries under the GSMA Open Gateway Initiative. The collaboration reinforces PTCL Group’s ongoing commitment to digital modernization and international cooperation in emerging technologies.
The GSMA Open Gateway Initiative is a global framework designed to enable enterprises to connect their digital services with mobile networks through standardized Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs). This approach enhances scalability, security, and efficiency in delivering digital services, while promoting cross-industry innovation. By adopting this model, telecom operators can expose network capabilities through APIs, making it easier for developers, startups, and businesses to integrate advanced telecom functionalities into their digital products and services. PTCL Group’s active participation in this global initiative signals a major step toward creating a more interconnected and developer-friendly digital environment in Pakistan.
At GITEX 2025, PTCL Group announced the successful development and certification of two new APIs, Send OTP and Validate OTP, compliant with the CAMARA standard 1.0.0. Built on Client Initiated Backend Authentication (CIBA), these APIs have received GSMA certification, confirming their alignment with international security and interoperability standards. This certification allows telecom operators and enterprises to access globally recognized authentication services that reduce fraud risks and streamline digital verification processes. These developments are expected to strengthen user trust and enhance digital experiences across financial, e-commerce, and enterprise applications.
Commenting on the achievement, Jafar Khalid, Group Chief Technology and Information Officer at PTCL and Ufone 4G, highlighted the company’s focus on advancing its integration ecosystem. He stated that adopting the CAMARA framework enables PTCL Group to improve agility and reduce time-to-market for new digital services. Khalid added that this foundation opens opportunities for collaboration with developers, hyperscalers, and startups, supporting new business models and fostering sustainable digital growth in Pakistan.
Jawad Abbassi, Head of MENA at GSMA, welcomed PTCL Group’s participation in the Open Gateway Initiative, noting that opening up network capabilities through APIs will enhance interoperability and enable next-generation digital services. He emphasized that the collaboration is instrumental in unlocking the potential of 5G, IoT, and related technologies. By joining the ranks of global telecom leaders participating in GSMA’s Open Gateway Initiative, PTCL Group is not only aligning itself with international standards but also contributing to Pakistan’s evolution as a digitally empowered economy. The collaboration represents a significant stride toward fostering innovation and secure, API-driven connectivity that benefits businesses and users alike across multiple industries.
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