AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad, Minister Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the importance of digital access as a fundamental right in the modern era, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to embracing the digital revolution. The country’s proactive engagement in digital innovation, driven by its youth, places it as the fourth-largest contributor to the global digital freelancing industry.
According to Press Information Department, Minister Iqbal commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its National Human Development Report 2023/2024 and noted its impact on guiding government initiatives. As Chairman of the Report Advisory Council, he highlighted the ongoing efforts to uplift 20 of Pakistan’s most impoverished districts, using the multidimensional poverty index introduced in UNDP’s 2018 report. The Youth Development Index also plays a crucial role in addressing the needs and concerns of Pakistani youth.
Minister Iqbal emphasized the government’s responsibility to bridge the digital divide, recognizing digital access as essential as electricity, healthcare, and education. He announced the establishment of National Centers of Excellence in key universities to promote innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, big data, and cloud computing.
Reflecting on significant milestones in Pakistan’s digital journey, Minister Iqbal mentioned the deregulation of the telecommunications industry in 1993, the introduction of 3G/4G licenses in 2013, and the launch of Pakistan’s first digital policy in 2021. He highlighted these initiatives as critical steps in Pakistan’s digital transformation.
Minister Iqbal emphasized the need for sustained economic growth rates of 7% to 9% to help Pakistan become a $2 trillion or $3 trillion economy by 2047. He urged the implementation of inclusive growth strategies to ensure that all segments of society benefit from the digital revolution, addressing the widening gap between socioeconomic groups in the digital age.
The event marked the launch of the report “Doing Digital for Development,” with Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal presiding over the ceremony alongside esteemed guests, including UN Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Ms. Kanni Wignaraja. The event was attended by diplomats, policymakers, civil society representatives, students, and other stakeholders, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to advancing digital innovation and inclusive development.