KARACHI, July 29, 2026: Pakistan must strengthen its digital infrastructure and encourage closer collaboration between the public and private sectors to build a competitive artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem, PTML Chief Technology and AI Officer Awais Vohra said at the GSMA Digital Nation Pakistan Ministerial Roundtable.
Speaking during the session, “Building Trusted Digital Infrastructure for an AI-Driven Economy,” Vohra said sustainable AI-driven growth depends on secure, resilient, and high-capacity digital infrastructure backed by long-term investment and predictable government policies.
He stressed the need for continued investment in digital connectivity, network modernization, improved reliability, and AI-native capabilities. According to Vohra, these elements will lay the foundation for Pakistan’s digital transformation.
Furthermore, he said stable and predictable policy frameworks are essential to attract investment. He also identified affordable smart devices and a reliable power supply as critical components of a digital ecosystem capable of accelerating AI adoption. In addition, he welcomed recent spectrum reforms, saying they would support the rollout of next-generation mobile services across Pakistan.
Addressing cybersecurity, Vohra urged stakeholders to integrate security and resilience into digital infrastructure from the outset. As AI expands across industries, he said, Pakistan must adopt forward-looking and innovation-friendly regulations that encourage emerging technologies while maintaining high standards of security and public trust.
Moreover, Vohra called for stronger collaboration among the government, regulators, telecom operators, technology providers, and development partners. He said coordinated efforts would help build a robust digital framework for the country.
He added that such collaboration would strengthen Pakistan’s economy, accelerate digital transformation, promote the responsible use of AI, and deliver long-term benefits across sectors such as education and healthcare while creating greater value for businesses and communities