President Asif Ali Zardari has extended greetings to Pakistan’s telecommunications community and all those working to advance the country’s digital infrastructure on the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, observed annually on May 17. In his message, the President acknowledged this year’s global theme, “Digital Lifelines: Strengthening Resilience in a Connected World,” describing it as a reflection of the growing centrality of reliable and accessible connectivity in everyday life, and noting that digital networks today support education, healthcare, commerce, banking, and public services across the country.
Highlighting Pakistan’s telecommunications performance, the President noted that the sector attracted United States Dollars 838 million in investment and generated revenues of Pakistani Rupees 1,075 billion during the financial year 2024-25. Pakistan now has more than 205 million telecom subscribers and over 161 million broadband users, supported by an expanding fibre optic network, submarine cable systems, and nationwide mobile coverage. The President pointed to the successful conclusion of Pakistan’s International Mobile Telecommunications and fifth generation Spectrum Auction in March 2026 as a landmark development, noting that the auction secured United States Dollars 509.6 million for the national treasury and expanded spectrum availability for mobile operators, creating the foundation for faster and more reliable next-generation services across the country.
The President emphasised the particular significance of connectivity for citizens living in remote and underserved areas, for whom digital access increasingly determines access to opportunity and information. He highlighted the federal government’s commitment, in collaboration with provincial governments, to policies that expand digital access nationwide, citing the Universal Service Fund’s role in extending broadband and voice services to previously unserved areas. He also noted that efforts are underway to advance fibre deployment, promote investment, and finalise satellite communications regulations for remote regions, reflecting a multi-layered approach to closing the connectivity gap that continues to affect large segments of Pakistan’s population.
In concluding his message, the President expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication, PTA, cellular mobile operators, and all stakeholders working to advance Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, reaffirming that reliable and affordable connectivity will remain essential for economic growth, public service delivery, and wider access to opportunity for all Pakistanis.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
