Shaza Fatima felicitates nation on 79th Independence Day

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja has extended her warm greetings to Pakistanis at home and abroad on the occasion of the country’s 79th Independence Day.

In her message, she said the day was an occasion to honour the vision and sacrifices of the founding fathers and pay tribute to every generation that had contributed to Pakistan’s progress.

She also recognised the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in steering Pakistan with resolve, confidence and unity.

Shaza Fatima said the victory in Marka-e-Haq had demonstrated the nation’s courage and resilience. It had also strengthened Pakistan’s standing and earned greater respect on the global stage.

The minister said Pakistan’s greatest strength was its people, particularly its young, talented and ambitious population. She said the government was working to turn its potential into progress.

She said Pakistan was moving from being a consumer of technology to becoming a creator, innovator and exporter.

The government was laying the foundations of a digitally empowered Pakistan through expanded connectivity, modern digital infrastructure, forward-looking policies, enabling legislation and investment in human capital, she added.

She said national AI initiatives were being advanced and the digital regulatory environment was being strengthened. Infrastructure for emerging technologies was also being expanded.

Young people were being trained in digital and high-tech skills, while innovation platforms, expos and startup initiatives were creating opportunities for Pakistani talent to develop solutions and compete globally.

Shaza Fatima said IT exports reached a record $4.6 billion in FY2025-26, registering 21 per cent growth.

She said Pakistan’s ranking in the ICT Development Index had also improved by 27 places.

“Our ambition is clear: to build a Digital Pakistan with resilient infrastructure, secure data, globally competitive talent and an inclusive innovation ecosystem that creates opportunity for every citizen,” she said.

The minister called upon the nation to honour its past, build on its progress and work towards a Pakistan that would not merely adapt to the future but create and lead it.