Pakistan Proposes Major Digital Infrastructure Partnership with ADB

Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja held an important meeting with Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda on 19 November in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. The meeting focused on deepening cooperation to support Pakistan’s Digital Nation vision and expanding regional digital connectivity.

During the discussion, the minister highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to build a strong and modern digital ecosystem. She proposed a joint investment with ADB in national digital infrastructure, including data centers, network expansion, and digital platforms across Pakistan. She said Pakistan aims to create a secure, reliable, and future-ready digital foundation that can drive economic growth.

Pakistan Proposes Major Digital Infrastructure Partnership with ADB

Shaza Fatima also emphasized the importance of Pakistan’s National Fiberization Plan. She said that regional cooperation is essential to make digital networks faster and more accessible. Strengthening fiber connectivity will not only improve internet quality within Pakistan but also boost cross-border digital integration.

The meeting also explored Pakistan’s potential to become a major regional digital gateway through the CAREC Digital Corridor. Both sides discussed how this corridor can help Pakistan serve as a central link for digital traffic across Central and South Asia.

The minister further held talks with the ADB leadership on introducing a Results-Based Financing model for Pakistan’s digital sector roadmap. This model would link funding with the achievement of key milestones, ensuring faster and more efficient project delivery.

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Shaza Fatima also sought ADB’s technical assistance for public sector pilot projects in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), agritech (agxeconomy), fintech, and health-tech. She said these technologies can play a major role in improving governance, public services, and economic productivity.

Pakistan also proposed joint funding for high-impact AI and digital innovation use cases. The aim is to support solutions that can deliver measurable benefits for citizens, industries, and government systems.

The meeting ended with a mutual understanding to continue working closely on long-term digital development initiatives. The cooperation aims to accelerate Pakistan’s digital transformation and strengthen its position in the regional digital economy.