Working group holds first meeting with Meta to discuss digital transformation efforts

Two sides agree to explore the idea of setting up a ‘community lab’ in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD:

The National Social Media Coordination Working Group (NSMCWG) on Tuesday met representatives of Meta, parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp to discuss initiatives by the social media giant to support the government’s digital transformation drive.

Prime Minister Imran Khan constituted the NSMCWG in October 2021 to streamline engagement with digital platforms and work on relevant policies related to social media. The group also focused on encouraging digital platforms to invest in Pakistan.

In the meeting with the NSMCWG, Meta representatives briefed the government on their initiatives that contribute to digital literacy, inclusion and enablement. They also discussed prospective collaboration efforts in the areas of connectivity, tools and systems for removing harmful content, compliance with local laws, rules and regulatory framework, and ways to support local content creators.

The working group also conveyed its concerns regarding effective and timely moderation of harmful and illegal content across the Meta platforms.

Both sides showed willingness for continued engagement to improve mechanics and cooperation on content moderation and compliance with local laws.

Members of the group appreciated Meta’s future plans for increased presence on Pakistan’s digital map.

Moreover, Meta and the working group agreed to explore the idea of setting up a ‘community lab’ in Pakistan by collaborating with academia, incubation centres, startups and telecom service providers.

The lab would offer a platform to develop and test innovative technology solutions to help grow the connectivity ecosystem in Pakistan.

Meta South Asia’s Head of Public Policy Sarim Aziz said that the creation of the working group has made it easier for digital platforms to engage with government stakeholders, share insights and concerns and respond to needs on the ground.

“We share the government of Pakistan’s vision of building a sustainable digital economy in Pakistan through thoughtful investments in connectivity infrastructure and digital upskilling programs to unlock economic growth at scale. This is the first of many discussions and we are committed to working with the government to ensure that online spaces remain safe, free and accessible to everyone in Pakistan.”

The NSMCWG stated that the discussion with Meta was fruitful and that the group continues to advocate for digital investments that will power sustainable economic development in the long term.

“We are encouraged that Meta is not only invested in local connectivity efforts, it is also exploring different ways for Pakistani businesses and creators to generate meaningful, reliable revenue on their platforms and is committed to opening up new opportunities in the future,” Sarim said.

This was the first meeting between the government constituted working group and Meta. It has also set the ground for future engagements as the two sides commit to enhancing digital connectivity and inclusion across the country.