The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications convened an important session on Monday, addressing critical challenges facing Pakistan’s digital landscape. Discussions ranged from Microsoft’s exit from Pakistan to the poor state of internet connectivity and billions in unpaid dues by telecom operators.
Microsoft’s Restructuring and Pakistan Exit
Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja clarified that Microsoft does not have an operational office in Pakistan. Only five employees are affiliated with the company locally, and it remains uncertain whether they will be leaving their positions.
“Microsoft’s decision is part of a global restructuring plan,” Shaza Fatima said, noting that over 16,000 employees have been laid off worldwide in the past year. She stressed that the government is proactively working to convince Microsoft to establish a fully functional operational office in Pakistan to support the country’s growing IT ecosystem.
Is Google Entering Pakistan?
In a significant revelation, the IT Minister confirmed that the government is in ongoing talks with Google about officially entering the Pakistani market. This potential investment by Google in Pakistan could boost local tech talent, create employment opportunities, and help improve digital infrastructure.
Pakistan’s Internet Connectivity Crisis
The committee meeting highlighted the severe internet issues plaguing both urban and rural areas. Member Mahesh Malani expressed concern that over 70% of Pakistan lacks proper internet coverage, including major cities like Karachi.
“Without dependable internet access, digitalisation simply cannot happen,” Malani stressed.
Committee Chairman Syed Aminul Haq added that telecom companies have turned into money-making machines, while the quality of service continues to decline. He called for a special session to investigate the recent internet shutdown in Panjgur, Balochistan, which affected thousands of residents.
Fiber Infrastructure and 4G/5G Delays
Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Hafeezur Rehman admitted that poor fiber infrastructure has delayed the rollout of 4G and 5G services. He cited multiple factors behind the delays:
- Incomplete fiber deployment
- Court cases over spectrum allocation
- The potential merger of two telecom companies
“It is not possible to run 4G or 5G without adequate fiber infrastructure,” he explained.
Rs70 Billion in Unpaid Dues by Telecom Operators
The committee also reviewed the alarming backlog of Rs70 billion in unpaid dues owed by Long Distance and International (LDI) operators. PTA revealed that nine companies are responsible for the arrears, but recovery has been stalled by legal challenges dating back to 2004.
“We still haven’t reached an agreement with the LDI operators on the repayment terms,” Hafeezur Rehman stated.
Only the federal cabinet can approve any relief or settlement of these payments, he clarified.
In response, the committee formed a four-member sub-committee led by Arbab Sher Ali to consult with LDI operators and recommend a way forward. Chairman Aminul Haq strongly urged quick action:
“Enough is enough—this delay is costing the government billions.”
Why It Matters
The Pakistani government’s efforts to engage Google and retain Microsoft highlight the country’s ambition to become a regional tech hub. However, without resolving chronic internet connectivity issues and holding telecom companies accountable, progress will remain slow.
Stay tuned for more updates as Pakistan negotiates with global tech giants and pushes forward with long-overdue telecom reforms.
