Pakistan to Launch 5G in Seven Major Cities

Pakistan is set to roll out 5G services in the coming months, beginning with seven major cities, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced on Tuesday.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 26th ITCN Asia Expo at the Expo Centre Karachi, Khawaja acknowledged the challenges of introducing next-generation technology but assured that measures were being taken to expand internet access across the country. Her comments followed a 2024 Pakistan Telecommunication Authority report, which warned that the shift to 5G could be difficult despite increasing broadband demand.

The minister admitted that financial hurdles remain but stressed that digital transformation is a government priority. She cited a recent agreement with Saudi Arabia, noting that information technology was its “core element,” aimed at boosting Pakistan’s digital infrastructure and overall economic growth.

Khawaja also connected technological progress with broader economic stability, pointing out that Pakistan had overcome default fears and was witnessing easing inflation alongside stronger macroeconomic indicators. “Karachi carries the weight of the country’s economic development,” she said, adding that Pakistan’s resilience has gained recognition under the “Digital Pakistan” initiative.

She highlighted the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s role in improving the investment climate and confirmed that the federal cabinet had approved Pakistan’s first Artificial Intelligence policy. Work is underway to train between 500,000 and one million youth in AI and cybersecurity by the end of the year. “Those who know the right use of technology will replace traditional positions,” Khawaja emphasized, urging young people to embrace digital skills.

On concerns about slow mobile and data services, she explained that two submarine cables were recently damaged in the Red Sea near Jeddah, affecting connectivity. However, the government is working to expand cable capacity and fiberisation for more reliable service.

Khawaja further revealed that Pakistan had successfully blocked multiple hacking attempts from India during heightened tensions, ensuring that no government websites were compromised.