Pakistan to Launch 5G Services in Seven Major Cities Soon
Pakistan is set to roll out 5G services in the coming months, starting with seven major cities, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced on Tuesday.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 26th ITCN Asia Expo at the Expo Centre Karachi, the minister acknowledged the challenges of introducing 5G but emphasized that steps are underway to expand internet access across the country. This comes months after the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority noted in its 2024 annual report that the transition to 5G would be complex despite growing broadband usage.
Khawaja highlighted the financial challenges of adopting next-generation technology but reaffirmed that digital development remains a priority. She pointed to a recent agreement with Saudi Arabia, describing information technology as a “core element” for strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and boosting economic growth.
The minister also linked digital progress to broader economic improvements, noting that Pakistan has overcome default concerns, with inflation easing and macroeconomic indicators showing stability. “Karachi carries the weight of the country’s economic development,” she said, adding that Pakistan’s resilience has been recognized internationally through the “Digital Pakistan” initiative.
Khawaja stressed the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council in improving the investment climate and confirmed that the federal cabinet had approved Pakistan’s first Artificial Intelligence policy. She also announced plans to train between 500,000 and one million young people in AI and cybersecurity by the end of the year. “Those who know the right use of technology will replace traditional positions,” she said, urging youth to embrace digital opportunities.
Addressing concerns about mobile and internet services, Khawaja explained that two submarine cables were recently damaged in the Red Sea near Jeddah, causing connectivity disruptions. She assured that the government is working to expand submarine cable capacity and improve fiber networks for better reliability.
The minister further revealed that Pakistan successfully blocked recent hacking attempts from India during a period of heightened tensions, ensuring that no government websites were compromised.
