Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, held a key meeting with Asian Development Bank President Masato Kanda in Bishkek on 19 November to advance cooperation on Pakistan’s digital agenda. The discussion centered on strengthening Digital Pakistan through targeted ADB support and strategic investments.
The minister proposed joint investment in national digital infrastructure, including new data centers and backbone network projects designed to expand capacity and resilience across Pakistan. Emphasis was placed on fast-tracking projects that underpin digital services and public sector delivery while attracting private and multilateral financing.
Pakistan highlighted its National Fiberization Plan and urged regional collaboration to maximise connectivity benefits. The two sides explored using the CAREC digital corridor as a framework to establish a regional digital gateway that would enhance cross-border data flows and trade-related digital services for Pakistan and neighbouring economies.
Federal proposals also included adopting a Results-Based Financing model to implement the digital sector roadmap, with ADB assistance to align finance disbursements to measurable milestones. Technical support for public sector pilots in AI, agri-economy, fintech and healthtech was discussed to demonstrate high-impact use cases and scale proven solutions nationwide.
Ministry officials presented a proposal for joint funding focused on high-impact AI and digital innovation projects, aiming to accelerate practical deployments that support services, jobs and economic growth. Strengthening Digital Pakistan through focused ADB partnership was positioned as a priority to improve digital access, economic inclusion and regional integration.
