Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, announced that Pakistan is negotiating with Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet startup, to launch its services in the country.

The announcement was made during a Senate Standing Committee hearing on IT and Telecommunication, presided over by Senator Palwasha Khan.

Khawaja informed the committee of the government’s initiatives to enhance Pakistan’s digital infrastructure, including intentions to sell the 5G spectrum in April 2024.

“We are negotiating with Starlink to introduce their services in Pakistan,” she stated, highlighting the initiative as a remedy for ongoing internet access challenges, especially in underprivileged and distant regions.

The statement occurs as Pakistan contends with extensive internet interruptions, which have profoundly impacted users across the nation, including freelancers, students, and enterprises. Industry players have indicated losses up to billions of rupees, urging prompt measures to stabilize the digital environment.

Obstacles in the Information Technology sector

The minister recognized multiple obstacles hindering the nation’s digital advancement, such as insufficient investment in the IT sector over the last three years and increasing pressures on internet infrastructure. Officials identified technical difficulties, including inadequate firewall management and increasing data use, as major factors in the poor speeds and disruptions.

Simultaneously, Sajjad Syed, the Chairman of the Pakistan Software Houses Association (P@SHA), emphasized the essential importance of dependable internet for the IT sector, which he observed is expanding at an annual rate of 30%. Syed advocated for a cooperative strategy between the government and the private sector to tackle these difficulties.

Concerns around VPN licenses and data security

The Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman, informed the committee about the implementation of a VPN license scheme commencing on January 1, 2024. The project seeks to mitigate data security issues associated with unregulated services while facilitating seamless operations for enterprises dependent on virtual private networks.

Senator Afanullah Khan emphasized the technological challenges of establishing such systems, urging for enhanced regulatory clarity to alleviate their effects on internet users and businesses.

The minister said that the government will conduct the 5G spectrum auction in April 2024, representing a crucial advancement in digital transformation. Industry experts have endorsed the announcement but warned that fundamental issues, such as reliable internet connection, must be resolved first.

Concentrate on Starlink

Starlink, recognized for its satellite-based technology, guarantees expedited and more dependable internet services. If implemented in Pakistan, it might be revolutionary for distant regions with little connectivity. Nonetheless, its success will hinge on surmounting regulatory and logistical obstacles.

The government’s continuous discussions with Starlink signify a comprehensive initiative to establish a resilient digital environment that can sustain the nation’s expanding IT sector.

Khawaja emphasized that dependable internet is essential for Pakistan’s digital future, reaffirming the government’s dedication to overcoming these difficulties and promoting a healthy IT ecosystem.