Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that Pakistan has secured approximately $700 million in fresh foreign investment pledges for its information technology sector, urging international stakeholders to continue supporting the country’s vision to become a global leader in the digital economy.
At the Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI-2025) conference, Sharif emphasized that Pakistan is actively shaping its future, leveraging its youthful population and expanding digital infrastructure as key strengths. The event attracted global tech leaders, investors, and innovators, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s digital transformation strategy.
“Every possible facility will be provided to investors in Pakistan’s IT sector,” Sharif assured, welcoming technology representatives from 11 friendly countries.
Highlighting the country’s demographic advantage, the prime minister noted that 60 percent of Pakistan’s population is young and talented, with digital skills already driving economic growth domestically and internationally. He pointed out that overseas Pakistanis sent a record $4.1 billion in remittances in March alone.
Sharif also highlighted a key partnership with Chinese tech giant Huawei, which trains 200,000 students annually in advanced technologies. He encouraged investors worldwide, including from North America, to participate in Pakistan’s burgeoning digital economy.
Reflecting on his past achievements, Sharif recalled distributing 400,000 laptops to students during his tenure as Punjab’s chief minister. He added that with World Bank support, Pakistan’s rural economy is going digital, complemented by initiatives such as Safe City surveillance projects, IT parks, and AI training centers.
Among the investment pledges, Sharif gave special recognition to a Pakistani entrepreneur and a Russian counterpart who recently announced a $500 million joint investment in Pakistan’s economy.
“We’re not just building a digital economy – we’re creating a digital Pakistan. From transforming agriculture through AI to expanding exports with smart technologies, this is the moment for global investors to join us,” Sharif said, inviting the world to invest, guide, and grow alongside Pakistan.
Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization, praised Pakistan’s ambitious drive, calling it a historic moment where innovation and opportunity converge. She highlighted Pakistan’s 142 million broadband users, 65 percent smartphone penetration, and projected IT exports exceeding $4 billion.
Sharif acknowledged AlYahya and other distinguished guests, inviting them to partner in modernizing sectors ranging from agriculture to exports and industrial innovation.
Reaffirming his commitment to realizing Pakistan’s technological ambitions, the prime minister declared, “Through tireless effort, Pakistan will claim its rightful place on the global IT stage.”
