Federal Minister for IT & Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja engaged with Saudi Telecom Company (STC) to explore collaboration across submarine cables and regional connectivity, fintech and low-cost cross-border remittances, and cloud infrastructure with cybersecurity innovation. The discussions aimed at concrete steps to strengthen links that support emerging technologies.
Officials discussed submarine cable projects and enhanced regional connectivity that could provide the backbone for 5G and AI adoption. Strengthening these links is seen as essential to unlocking higher-capacity international routes and supporting Pakistan’s digital ambitions as part of a broader Digital Corridor initiative.
The talks placed particular emphasis on fintech solutions to lower the cost of cross-border remittances. With over $9 billion in annual remittances, cooperation on digital payments and affordable transfer mechanisms could deliver significant economic relief for families and businesses in Pakistan.
Cloud infrastructure and cybersecurity innovation were highlighted as priorities to secure digital services and enable scalable platforms for payments, enterprise services and government applications. Collaboration with STC is intended to accelerate technical exchanges, protect critical systems and promote trusted cloud deployments.
These discussions mark a step closer to a future-ready Digital Corridor between Pakistan and KSA, aligning shared visions for 5G, AI and digital payments and laying the groundwork for a powerful technology partnership that supports economic connectivity and digital transformation.
