SIFC Driving Investor Confidence Through Unified Approach, Says IT Minister

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja stated on Wednesday that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is instrumental in boosting investor confidence through its comprehensive “whole-of-government” strategy.

Speaking at the Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) conference spanning two days, Khawaja acknowledged the military-supported initiative for optimizing decision-making and cultivating a harmonious environment, assuring both domestic and international investors.

“The SIFC’s all-encompassing governmental strategy has significantly contributed to fostering investor confidence in Pakistan,” she remarked.

She asserted that Pakistan is well-positioned to emerge as a technology and digital investment hub, citing robust public-private partnerships, forward-thinking policies, and an increasing pool of proficient IT professionals as significant advantages.

“Today, we can confidently affirm that investing in Pakistan guarantees a successful venture,” she stated, emphasizing the necessity for sustained collaboration among the public and private sectors, global partners, and development organizations to fully realize Pakistan’s potential, not only in IT but also in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, finance, education, and manufacturing.

“Technology transcends sectoral boundaries, influencing every field and proving vital for comprehensive development,” she added, pointing out that the digital transformation presents both obstacles and fresh avenues for advancement.

Khawaja underscored Pakistan’s demographic benefit, noting that nearly 150 million young individuals under 30 offer the nation a promising prospect in digital innovation.

She also detailed crucial policy actions, such as the Digital Nation Pakistan Act, the National AI Policy, the Cybersecurity Policy, the creation of technology parks and specialized technology zones, backing for a thriving startup ecosystem, and the transition towards a cashless economy.

“Pakistan now boasts an inclusive digital ecosystem propelled by leadership, vision, and talent. We are poised to lead, not merely follow,” she proclaimed.

She lauded the prime minister’s leadership in guiding these endeavors, highlighting that approximately 75,000 IT graduates and 300,000 certified professionals enter the workforce annually, establishing a strong foundation for expansion.

She announced that Pakistan will assume the presidency of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) in 2026 and expressed optimism about broadening regional technology corridors to ensure accessibility to markets, talent, capital, and optimal practices.

Khawaja also conveyed gratitude to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, Ministry of Commerce, local administration, security agencies, and particularly the private sector for their assistance.

Secretary General of DCO Deemah AlYahya, speaking at a press briefing, praised Pakistan for advocating DFDI.

She stressed that Pakistan’s leadership role will not only enhance the nation’s technological framework but also empower it to aid other countries in their digital progression.

She commented that Pakistan’s DCO presidency in 2026 signifies a sustained effort to establish the nation as a digital powerhouse for the region and the world, noting that the DCO is dedicated to opening markets for businesses across all member states, promoting international collaboration. Pakistan, she emphasized, will play a pivotal role in spearheading these developments.

AlYahya also voiced optimism regarding Pakistan’s burgeoning digital sector, notably the youth-driven innovation.

“Witnessing the youth and the expansion within Pakistan’s digital sector fills us with considerable optimism,” she stated. “It inspires us to collaborate with all our member nations and leverage the advancements in each country.”

She emphasized the significance of identifying each country’s competitive strengths to tackle global challenges, noting that the DCO’s objective is to pinpoint these strengths and areas needing improvement.

She highlighted the Digital FDI event in Pakistan as an illustration of how the country’s infrastructure, youth talent, and advancements in software and hardware could draw private sector investment and unlock new opportunities.

“The Digital FDI event here in Pakistan exemplifies how we can harness Pakistan’s competitive advantages to generate global opportunities,” she added.

The two-day conference concluded with a firm commitment to establish Pakistan as a regional frontrunner in technology, information technology (IT), and information and communication technology (ICT).

The event witnessed participation from over 45 countries, with more than 40 international companies and startups showcasing their offerings.

Approximately 35 ministers and official delegations from various countries were in attendance, alongside over 30 global speakers and more than 50 CEOs from prominent IT firms.

Organized by the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication in partnership with the DCO, the DFDI Forum 2025 was intended to promote Pakistan as a prime destination for digital investment and innovation.

The forum convened investors, policymakers, industry leaders, and tech experts from around the globe to explore prospects in the expanding digital economy.