Let’s hope that the ongoing visit will have a positive impact to transform digital business environment in our country
ISLAMABAD: Queen Máxima of the Netherlands arrived in Islamabad this week to attend various important meetings. Being the UN Secretary General’s Special Advocate (UNSGSA) for Inclusive Finance for Development, she will also have meetings with the President and the Prime Minister to exchange views on the current economic situation as well as the steps being taken by the government to tackle economic challenges. Queen Maxima will also grace the launching ceremony of the Micropayments Gateway, an initiative to stimulate digital payments in Pakistan.
However, it is learnt that the honourable guest, during a recently-held meeting with Pakistani officials, stressed the need for greater use of technology in order to ensure boosting financial inclusion. Different representatives of the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, and other UN agencies were also present on the occasion.
The Queen is visiting Pakistan on such a critical time when PayPal, an international giant in digital money transaction, has once again refused to extend its services to the Pakistani market. We must not forget that the role of PayPal across the globe is highly remarkable for uplifting socio-economic conditions of local population. In this digital era, a number of talented Pakistani freelancers are also looking forward to contribute in an efficient and effective way to the betterment of the national economy, subject to the availability of PayPal services. However, it is quite unfortunate that PayPal is not yet ready to consider Pakistan as their next business destination.
The government is requested to avail this wonderful opportunity to raise the PayPal issue with the honourable Queen. Let’s hope that the ongoing visit of the Dutch Royal will have a positive impact to transform digital business environment in our country.
Sabah Uddin Qazi
Published in The Express Tribune, November 28th, 2019.
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