Hajra Naz
Pakistan is making history today as it kicks off its inaugural Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) Conference. Delegates from around the world began arriving yesterday for this landmark event aimed at boosting digital investment in the country.
Global Participation and Investor Turnout
Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, shared during a casual meeting with reporters that the conference has drawn representatives from 45 countries, including powerhouses like
- China
- Russia
- Nations across South America.
Over 75 investors are in attendance, alongside CEOs from more than 50 international companies, creating significant buzz around Pakistan’s growing digital economy.
Showcasing Local Innovation
More than 100 Pakistani IT companies and startups are set to present their ideas and products to potential global investors. The purpose of the event is to showcase domestic tech innovation in addition to luring investment.
In addition to giving foreign delegates a personal glimpse at Pakistan’s technological potential, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is hosting a special luncheon in honor of the international participants.
Read More: Digital FDI Initiative: Digital FDI-Enabling Project in Pakistan
Strengthening Ties with the Private Sector
In addition, Pakistan is starting the DEEP project, which is supported by the World Bank, to help facilitate business. The goal of this project is to modernize Pakistan’s economy, draw in long-term investors, and facilitate and open up economic dealings in the nation.
DCO Secretary-General Attends as Chief Guest
The Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) is attending the conference as the chief guest. Minister Shaza Fatima highlighted Saudi Arabia’s leading role in promoting the DCO and emphasized that Pakistan will take over the presidency of the DCO in 2026.
Pakistan plans to work closely with Saudi Arabia in advancing DCO’s regional and global goals.
Strategic Investment Announcements
During the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will officially announce new investment commitments. Several agreements have already been finalized ahead of the conference, setting the stage for long-term engagement. The government has also stated its ambition to bring in even more foreign investment over the next year.
National Digital Transformation in Progress
To support these ambitions, the government is actively working on its National Digital Transformation project. The focus is on simplifying business operations through digital tools.
Soon, Islamabad will see the opening of a Business Facilitation Center, and efforts are underway to build a “one-stop shop” model to streamline services for businesses and investors.
World Bank Support via DEEP Project
To promote business facilitation, Pakistan is also starting the DEEP project, which is supported by the World Bank. This program is a component of a larger endeavor to modernize Pakistan’s economy, draw in long-term investors, and facilitate and open up economic dealings in the nation.
Conclusion
The DFDI Conference marks a turning point for Pakistan’s role in the digital economy. With strong international attendance, high-level agreements, and a clear roadmap for transformation, Pakistan is signaling its readiness to become a serious player in the global digital investment space.
