Government vows nationwide digital transformation as telecom operators secure 5G licenses
ISLAMABAD: Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday hailed Pakistan’s entry into the 5G era as a “milestone” moment, as the government formally issued next-generation spectrum licenses to major telecom operators.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, the prime minister said the 5G auction was conducted with “complete transparency” and congratulated Federal IT Minister Shiza Fatima Khawaja, her team, and operators including Jazz, Zong, and Ufone.
“The government is committed to providing modern technology facilities across the country,” Sharif said, adding that 5G would empower youth to leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence to strengthen Pakistan’s IT sector.
He also underscored Pakistan’s close relationship with China, calling the adoption of advanced technology a reflection of their enduring partnership.
Khawaja described the rollout as Pakistan’s first step into 5G connectivity, noting parallel efforts to enhance existing 4G services. She said the initiative would significantly improve internet quality nationwide.
Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, Hafeez ur Rehman, highlighted the country’s telecom evolution since the 1990s. He said that with this latest auction, Pakistan now leads the region in spectrum capacity.
The ceremony concluded with the formal signing of licenses, paving the way for nationwide 5G rollout aimed at accelerating digital services and economic growth.
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