Islamabad, 1 April 2026(Kamran Raja): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Mr. Kaan Terzioglu, Chief Executive Officer of VEON Group, who called on him along with a delegation in Islamabad. Welcoming the delegation, the Prime Minister expressed goodwill and reiterated the Government of Pakistan’s strong commitment to facilitating investors in the digital operators’ industry, particularly in the information technology sector. He noted that the recent successful auction of the 5G spectrum in Pakistan reflects the country’s positive and effective direction towards technological innovation. The Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan is pursuing a comprehensive and effective strategy to promote innovation in the IT sector and to attract increased international investment. He highlighted that the federal government is undertaking practical measures, through enhanced coordination among relevant institutions, to ensure ease and facilitation for foreign investors.
He further stated that the effective use of information technology to achieve a cashless economy is among the government’s top priorities. The Prime Minister underlined that transparency and increased investment across all sectors remain key objectives of the government. The Prime Minister also noted that following the 5G spectrum auction, all relevant institutions are working in close coordination to ensure the provision of high-quality internet services to the public. He added that Pakistan’s young population holds immense potential and can play a pivotal role in economic growth and the delivery of quality services through constructive engagement in IT and digital platforms. The growing interest of youth in telecommunications and IT presents a significant opportunity for international investors.
Mr. Kaan Terzioglu thanked the Prime Minister for the warm reception and appreciated the government’s efforts, under the Prime Minister’s leadership, towards achieving a cashless economy and full digitalization of the economy. He also expressed VEON Group’s intention to further expand its investment in Pakistan. The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, CEO of Jazz Aamir Ibrahim, and other senior government officials.