PM reaffirms support for digital investment in Pakistan as VEON group eyes expansion
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in meeting with Group CEO of multinational telecommunication and digital services company VEON Kaan Terzioglu. Photo: PMO
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed his government’s commitment to facilitating foreign investment in Pakistan’s digital economy, as VEON Group CEO Kaan Terzioglu expressed interest in expanding operations in the country.
According to the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) statement on X, during a meeting with a VEON delegation in Islamabad, the premier said the government was providing “all possible facilitation” to investors in the digital and telecom sectors, citing the recent 5G spectrum auction as evidence of Pakistan’s “positive and effective direction” towards innovation.
PM Shehbaz said Pakistan was pursuing a comprehensive strategy to boost international investment in information technology while ensuring transparency through digitalisation of the economy.
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Group CEO of multinational telecommunication and digital services company VEON Mr. Kaan Terzioglu called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad. pic.twitter.com/AFuP5pu6Nq
“The government is taking practical steps, in coordination with all institutions, to facilitate international investors,” the prime minister said, adding that the promotion of a cashless economy through effective use of IT remained a key priority.
The statement said that during the meeting, the prime minister noted that following the 5G spectrum auction, relevant institutions were working in coordination to ensure the provision of high-quality internet services.
"He also underscored the role of Pakistan’s youth, saying their growing interest in IT and digital platforms made the country an attractive destination for global investors," it added.
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Terzioglu appreciated the government’s efforts to enhance transparency and improve the investment climate, saying Pakistan had moved “swiftly” towards achieving a digital economy and rolling out 5G services.
He also lauded initiatives aimed at promoting a cashless economy and expressed VEON’s intention to further increase investment in Pakistan.
The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Aurangzeb, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim and other senior officials.