Caretaker IT Minister emphasized the importance of the SIFC Forum in driving digital transformation and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Pakistan.
Pakistan is on the verge of making satellite internet accessible to the public, with negotiations with Starlink reaching their final stages, as announced by the Caretaker IT Minister, in a recent video statement. The minister discussed the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in economic growth, highlighting its key role in formulating the country’s first space policy.
Caretaker IT Minister emphasized the importance of the SIFC Forum in driving digital transformation and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Pakistan. He stated that crucial decisions are being made through the SIFC forum in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, directly benefiting the masses and contributing to the rapid development and stability of the country’s economy.
The upcoming space policy, currently under consideration, is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s approach to space-related activities, including satellite communications and internet access. The inclusion of military and political leadership in the SIFC forum is seen as a facilitator for swift decision-making, ensuring that economic stability and public interests are prioritized.
“We are confident that with the presence of the SIFC, the upcoming government will also be able to make timely decisions for the country’s development and public interests, because it is important that we do not compromise on our economic stability and public interests,” Caretaker IT Minister added.
The minister also highlighted the importance of avoiding departmental obstacles and urged quick and effective decision-making in the interest of the country. The SIFC was identified as a crucial forum for overcoming bureaucratic delays and ensuring the implementation of initiatives beneficial to Pakistan’s economic growth.
One of the notable achievements mentioned by Caretaker IT Minister is the resolution of a longstanding case involving the spectrum allocation to Sun TV since 2014. With the intervention of the SIFC forum, legal requirements were addressed, leading to the daily hearings of the case by the Honorable High Court of Sindh. The court’s recent verdict has resulted in the acquisition of valuable spectrum worth millions of dollars by the government.
In addition to the satellite internet development, the minister touched upon various initiatives, from the establishment of the Advisory Committee for spectrum auctions to the laying of optical fiber cables across the country and the effective implementation of the Right of Way Policy.
The SIFC, according to the minister, has played a crucial role in removing departmental hurdles, ensuring that decisions align with the country’s interests.
The impending availability of satellite internet through Starlink is expected to open new possibilities for connectivity and communication in Pakistan. As negotiations near completion, the public eagerly anticipates the potential benefits of enhanced internet access, marking a significant milestone in the country’s technological landscape.