On 3 October 2025 in Riyadh, Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja held talks with senior officials of Saudi Telecom Company (STC) focused on expanding business opportunities and investment ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The meeting explored a potential STC partnership within the framework of Pakistan’s Connect Pakistan 2030 policy, with both sides assessing ways to align STC’s role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital agenda with Pakistan’s national connectivity plans. STC, the largest telecom operator in Saudi Arabia and the GCC, was discussed as a strategic collaborator for investments across the region.
Officials discussed cooperation in building Pakistan’s fiber network and strengthening cloud and cyber security capabilities, with particular emphasis on fintech innovation and low-cost cross-border payments. The delegation highlighted Pakistan’s existing ICT export value of $3.8 billion and a mobile user base approaching 200 million as compelling reasons for further investment and partnership.
Participants also exchanged ideas on positioning Pakistan as a stronger regional transit hub to connect the GCC, Asia and Africa, and considered joint participation in submarine cable projects and other digital connectivity initiatives. The discussions underlined how an STC partnership could accelerate infrastructure projects and fintech solutions that support cross-border commerce and digital services across the region.
Both sides agreed to continue detailed consultations to convert the initial proposals into actionable projects, with Pakistani officials emphasising the country’s strategic importance for regional digital transit and investment opportunities that align with Connect Pakistan 2030.
