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Minister of State for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, has refuted allegations suggesting governmental actions were responsible for the recent slowdown in internet connectivity across Pakistan.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, she underscored the government’s non-involvement in the disruption, attributing the issue to the extensive use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) as the primary cause.
“I can unequivocally state that the government of Pakistan has not imposed any blockages or slowed down the internet,” Khawaja declared, acknowledging the public’s growing dissatisfaction with connectivity issues.
The minister elaborated on the impact of VPN usage on mobile devices, which can lead to a perceived slowdown in internet services.
Her statements were made in the context of widespread reports of restricted internet access, especially on mobile networks, which some analysts link to heightened security protocols and the deployment of a national firewall designed to filter out undesirable content.
Khawaja also outlined the government’s strategies to bolster Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. She announced the progress of the installation of four new internet cables aimed at enhancing connectivity and disclosed plans to introduce 5G technology by 2025.
Furthermore, the government is in the process of establishing IT parks in both Islamabad and Karachi, anticipated to create more than 10,000 jobs and generate substantial revenue, with support from South Korea.
Addressing concerns over cybersecurity, the state minister defended the implementation of the national firewall, characterizing it as a necessary step in response to the evolving global cybersecurity landscape.
She assured the public that the government is collaborating closely with IT authorities to address the current internet issues and to improve Pakistan’s digital environment.
In addition, the government intends to set up 250 e-employment centers in partnership with provincial authorities, as a component of a wider initiative to advance the IT sector.
Ms Khawaja highlighted the government’s dedication to the sector, noting that over Rs60 billion has been allocated for IT development in the recent budget, despite facing economic challenges.
The minister concluded her remarks by emphasizing that the IT sector continues to be a priority for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), with plans for a digitization commission to be chaired by the prime minister himself.
