Reliable, affordable connectivity will remain essential to economic growth and public services
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Ali Zardari said the federal government, together with provincial governments, remained committed to policies to expand digital access and improve connectivity across the country.
In a message on the occasion of World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, he said, “I extend my greetings to the telecommunication community of Pakistan and all those working towards strengthening the country’s digital infrastructure.”
“This year’s theme, Digital Lifelines: Building Resilience in a Connected World, reflects the growing importance of reliable and accessible connectivity in everyday life. Digital networks today support education, healthcare, commerce, banking and public services.
For many citizens, especially those living in remote and undeserved areas, connectivity now determines access to opportunities and information,” he added.
He said: “Pakistan’s telecommunications sector continues to contribute significantly to national development. In the financial year 2024-25, the sector attracted $838 million in investment and generated revenue of Rs1,075 billion. Pakistan today has more than 205 million telecommunications subscribers and more than 161 million broadband users, supported by an expanding fiber optic network, submarine cable systems and nationwide mobile coverage.
“The successful conclusion of Pakistan’s IMT/5G spectrum auction in March 2026 marked an important step towards the country’s digital future. The auction secured $509.6 million for the national treasury and expanded spectrum availability for mobile operators, creating the basis for faster and more reliable next-generation services,” he added.
He said: “Thanks to the Universal Service Fund, broadband and voice services have reached millions of people in previously unserved areas. Efforts are also underway to advance fiber optic deployment, promote investment, and finalize satellite communications regulations for remote areas.
He appreciated the efforts of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, mobile operators and all stakeholders working to strengthen the digital ecosystem of Pakistan.
Reliable and affordable connectivity will remain essential for economic growth, public services and broader access to opportunities for all Pakistanis,” he concluded.
