ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is stepping up efforts to attract global technology investment, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with VEON Group Chief Executive Officer Kaan Terzioglu to advance cooperation in digital infrastructure, financial inclusion, and next-generation connectivity.
The meeting, held in Islamabad on Wednesday, underscored Pakistan’s ambitions to accelerate its digital transformation and position itself as a competitive destination for international investors in the technology sector.
Pakistan Prime Minister’s Office said, Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to facilitating investors, particularly in the telecommunications and information technology industries.
He pointed to the recent 5G spectrum auction as a milestone achievement, describing it as a clear indication of Pakistan’s forward-looking approach to innovation and digital development.
اسلام آباد: 1 اپریل 2026
وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف سے عالمی ڈیجیٹل آپریٹر VEON گروپ کے چیف ایگزیکٹو افیسر کان ترزی اوعلو کی وفد کے ہمراہ ملاقات آج اسلام آباد میں ہوئی.
وزیراعظم نے اس موقع پر وفد کو خوش آمدید کہا اورخیر سگالی کے جذبات کا اظہار کیا۔ وزیرِ اعظم نے گفتگو کرتے… pic.twitter.com/Vy68Mr4wQ8
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) April 1, 2026
The auction, which allocated key spectrum to major telecom operators, is expected to pave the way for improved internet services and expanded digital access across the country. According to the prime minister, government institutions are working in close coordination to ensure efficient rollout and high-quality connectivity for citizens.
Sharif also emphasized that digitalization lies at the heart of the government’s economic strategy. Efforts are underway to enhance transparency, boost investor confidence, and expand participation in the formal economy through technology-driven solutions. A central pillar of this vision is the transition toward a cashless economy, supported by digital payment systems and fintech platforms.
During the talks, VEON reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Pakistan by announcing a planned investment of $1 billion over the next three years. The funding will focus on accelerating 5G deployment, expanding broadband infrastructure, and strengthening the country’s digital ecosystem.
وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف سے عالمی ڈیجیٹل آپریٹر کمپنی VEON گروپ کے چیف ایگزیکٹو آفیسر کان ترزی اوعلو کی وفد کے ہمراہ ملاقات
وزیراعظم نے کہا بین الاقوامی سرمایہ کاروں، بالخصوص انفارمیشن ٹیکنالوجی کے شعبے میں سرمایہ کاری کی سہولت کے لیے حکومت پُرعزم ہے۔ پاکستان معیشت کے شعبے میں… pic.twitter.com/KcDXQlob3v
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) April 1, 2026
Highlighting VEON’s broader vision, Kaan Terzioğlu emphasized the company’s continued support for Pakistan’s digital ambitions. He referred to the “Invest in Pakistan NOW” initiative, launched earlier this year to attract global investors, and said that sustained investment in connectivity and digital services — along with efforts to bring in international capital — would accelerate technology adoption, enhance competitiveness, and expand economic opportunities.
The prime minister welcomed VEON’s continued investment, recognizing its role in supporting economic growth and technological advancement. He also acknowledged the contributions of Jazz, VEON’s local subsidiary, and its fintech platform JazzCash, which has played a significant role in promoting digital payments.
JazzCash has emerged as a key driver of financial inclusion, becoming the first platform in Pakistan to onboard one million merchants on the Raast QR system. With tens of millions of users linked to the national instant payment system, it processes a substantial share of digital transactions nationwide.
Both sides stressed the importance of public-private collaboration to accelerate digital adoption, expand broadband access, and leverage emerging technologies for inclusive economic growth.
Aamir Ibrahim, CEO of JazzWorld, said, “Pakistan is entering a new phase of digital growth, and continued collaboration between government and industry will be key to unlocking its full potential. Our sustained investments in connectivity and digital platforms, including the USD 1 billion commitment to support 5G rollout, reflect our confidence in Pakistan and our purpose of enabling a Better Life for All.”
Highlighting Pakistan’s demographic advantage, the prime minister noted that the country’s young and tech-savvy population represents a major opportunity for investors. Increasing youth participation in digital platforms, he said, can significantly contribute to economic development and service delivery.
Senior government officials, including Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, attended the meeting alongside VEON and Jazz leadership.
As Pakistan moves into what officials describe as a new phase of digital growth, sustained partnerships between the government and global technology firms are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s digital future.
