ISLAMABAD: A strategic collaboration between Huawei Pakistan and the Ministry of Planning, Development & Special Initiatives is poised to herald a new era of digital transformation in Pakistan.
A high-level delegation from Huawei Pakistan, led by CEO Mr. Ethan Sun, convened with Planning Minister Professor Ahsan Iqbal to deliberate ambitious plans for a Digital Corridor and bolster the nation’s digital economy.
Highlighting Pakistan’s potential as a significant player in the competitive digital economy, the delegation noted, “Pakistanis are the second biggest nationality employed in Huawei.” It is anticipated that advanced economies will experience a substantial increase in their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) due to digital advancements. Leading experts project that over 30% of the GDP of developed nations will be driven by digital innovation and infrastructure by the next decade, as expressed by CEO of Huawei Pakistan.
Discussions during the meeting encompassed various projects slated for inclusion within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Phase II project list, alongside collaboration opportunities regarding Pakistan’s Digital Economy Strategy. Both entities explored prospective ventures in digital economy transformation under CPEC, acknowledging Pakistan’s significant growth potential in this sector.
As Pakistan’s digital landscape evolves swiftly, both parties deliberated on the prerequisites for fostering an environment conducive to sustainable growth. Four key pillars were identified for establishing a robust digital corridor: connectivity, data centers, firewall protection, and smart governance. “These elements are crucial for fueling economic growth and ensuring global competitiveness in the digital age,” emphasized the minister.
Furthermore, Ahmed Bilal Masood, Deputy CEO of Huawei Pakistan, assured that Pakistan can become a major trading zone for the vast user-base of Middle Eastern countries.
Underlining the pivotal role of digital advancement in shaping Pakistan’s economic future, the Minister asserted, “Comprehensive digital transformation is the only path to sustained economic progress for our nation. Embracing digital technologies and infrastructure is not just an option; it’s a necessity if we are to thrive in the global marketplace.”
Substantial investments are already underway to enhance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and technological capabilities. The establishment of a Huawei manufacturing setup in Pakistan was also deliberated upon, aimed at fostering employment opportunities and facilitating reductions in smartphone prices.
Proposing Islamabad as a model smart city, the Planning Minister underscored the importance of providing digital infrastructure for the new age economy. Additionally, Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the establishment of an Innovation Center at UET Narowal, inviting Huawei to be a technology partner in this initiative.
Mr. Ethan expressed Huawei’s keen interest in collaborating with Pakistan on the proposed initiatives, reaffirming Huawei’s commitment to fostering technological innovation and economic growth in Pakistan.
