Minister of State for IT and Telecom, Shaza Fatima, informed the National Assembly Standing Committee on IT and Telecom on Thursday that negotiations are underway with Starlink to enhance internet access across Pakistan. The minister provided updates on the state of internet services, monitoring practices, and the challenges of digital connectivity during the meeting.

The minister admitted that Pakistan’s internet infrastructure is far from ideal, acknowledging that even the best services fail to meet expectations. She emphasized the government’s commitment to improving connectivity and addressing the issues faced by citizens and businesses alike.

Responding to criticism over frequent internet outages, Shaza Fatima questioned how Pakistan’s IT exports, which generate billions of dollars, could still thrive if the internet were completely shut down. She clarified that the government’s role is to ensure necessary monitoring but stressed that unwarranted surveillance is unacceptable.

The minister also refuted claims made by the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA) regarding financial losses due to internet disruptions. She dismissed their reported $8 billion loss figure as inaccurate and urged critics to avoid spreading misinformation.

The discussion grew heated as committee members voiced their frustrations over internet shutdowns and their impact on the economy. One member suggested holding a joint press conference with industry representatives to align narratives and address public concerns. Another highlighted the struggles faced by freelancers, who are particularly vulnerable to connectivity disruptions.

Chairman of the committee, Syed Aminul Haq, reiterated the importance of consistent internet services, stating that the internet should never be shut down. He called for a permanent solution to ensure uninterrupted connectivity for all users.