Government Prioritizes Digitization of Economy Under PM Shehbaz Sharif

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized that the government is prioritizing the digitization of the economy, aiming to transition financial transactions towards a cashless and digital system. During a review meeting focused on the cashless economy held in Islamabad, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of cooperation between provincial chief secretaries and the federal government to expand the Raast digital payment system to district levels.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction with the progress made towards establishing a cashless economy and advancing digital financial systems. The meeting highlighted plans for Pakistan to develop digital public infrastructure, which will include creating digital IDs for every citizen. These digital IDs intend to integrate national Identity Cards, biometrics, and mobile numbers, facilitating secure and efficient payments.

The briefing further revealed that provincial governments have made significant strides in connecting government-to-public and public-to-government payments with the Raast system. Additionally, it was noted that federal development agencies have been granted the Right of Way for fiber connectivity. Discussions are ongoing with Pakistan Railways and the National Highway Authority to further expand the country’s digital infrastructure.