Pakistan and Saudi Arabia took a big step forward in boosting their digital and economic ties at the Pak-Saudi Business Forum, held alongside LEAP 2025. The forum saw a great turnout of Pakistani and Saudi business leaders, government officials, and tech experts, all coming together to explore new opportunities.
Notable attendees included Deema Al Yahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), along with other key representatives from Saudi Arabia, highlighting the growing strength of this partnership and the potential for even more collaboration in the future.
Minister of State for IT & Telecom, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, addressed the business forum, highlighting Pakistan’s strong ICT sector, growing exports, and rapid digital economic transformation. She noted that Pakistan’s ICT exports increased by 28% in the first half of FY 2024-25, reaching $1.86 billion, fueled by a young and dynamic talent pool.
In her address, Minister Khawaja underscored Pakistan’s major policy advancements, stating, “We are finalizing our AI policy, National Fiberization policy, and Semiconductor policy—these are significant milestones in Pakistan’s journey toward a tech-driven future.”
A key achievement mentioned was the passing of the Digital Nation Act 2025, which the Minister described as “not just an act of legislation, but an act of transformation.” She expressed gratitude to the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) for its support in promoting digital growth in Pakistan.
She also discussed the Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) Initiative, a collaboration with the World Economic Forum and the Digital Cooperation Organization. Announcing that the DFDI Forum will be held in Islamabad in the coming months, she invited all stakeholders, saying, “I encourage everyone to join this landmark event. It will open new opportunities for digital investments and further strengthen Pak-Saudi cooperation in the tech and investment sectors.”
The Minister praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visionary leadership, under which Pakistan’s tech-friendly policies and economic revival initiatives have accelerated the country’s digital transformation. She also acknowledged the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for its critical role in boosting investor confidence, streamlining business operations, and fostering global partnerships, making Pakistan an attractive destination for digital investment.
ALSO READ >>> >>> Punjab govt approves Honhaar scholarships for students from other provinces
Expressing Pakistan’s full support for Saudi Vision 2030, the Minister invited Saudi investors to explore opportunities in Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Cybersecurity, and Cloud Computing. She emphasized that “Pakistan offers cutting-edge technology solutions, world-class digital services, and a highly skilled workforce. We seek long-term partnerships for mutual growth.”
She also recognized the record-breaking participation of Pakistan at LEAP 2025, saying, “This year’s LEAP event has seen the highest attendance Pakistan has ever had. I hope this will be a productive opportunity to forge new connections. We are eager to not just sign MOUs but establish long-term business agreements and enduring partnerships.”
Furthermore, she expressed her appreciation for the steadfast support from stakeholders in Pakistan, saying, “I would like to acknowledge everyone back home who has been incredibly supportive of this sector. Their efforts have been crucial in positioning Pakistan as a rising digital powerhouse.”
With over 100 tech companies and 1,000 delegates, Pakistan’s largest-ever participation at LEAP 2025 highlights its thriving digital ecosystem and expanding global presence.
LEAP 2025 and the Pak-Saudi Business Forum reaffirm Pakistan’s growing role in the global digital economy and mark significant milestones in strengthening technological and economic cooperation with Saudi Arabia and beyond.
