IT minister reveals 5G launch date in Pakistan

Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Tuesday announced that Pakistan will roll out 5G services in the coming months, with the initial launch expected in seven major cities.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 26th ITCN Asia Expo at the Expo Centre Karachi, she said measures were being taken to improve internet reliability nationwide.

The minister acknowledged that two damaged submarine cables in the Red Sea near Jeddah had disrupted services but assured that work was underway to expand submarine cable capacity and enhance fiberisation.

Khawaja highlighted that information technology would play a central role in a recently signed Pakistan-Saudi Arabia agreement, which aims to strengthen digital infrastructure and foster economic growth. She added that under the government’s “Digital Pakistan” initiative, international recognition of the country’s technology sector had improved, supported by the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s efforts to attract investment.

The minister also pointed to improving macroeconomic conditions, noting reduced inflation and progress away from default risks. She stressed Karachi’s importance to the country’s economic development.

Khawaja said the cabinet had approved Pakistan’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy and its implementation was underway. Between 500,000 and 1 million youth are expected to be trained in AI and cybersecurity by the end of 2025. She urged young people to make effective use of technology, remarking that “those who know the right use of technology will replace traditional positions.”