USA
Pakistani-American Investors Commit $20 Million to Boost Pakistan’s IT Sector. In a major leap for Pakistan’s IT sector, Pakistani-American investors pledged over $20 million at the Pakistan-U.S. Tech Investment Conference held in California. The event showcased Pakistan’s tech potential and reinforced the role of the diaspora in driving investments and innovation.
Keynote Highlights Support for IT Growth
The conference, inaugurated by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, was organized by the Pakistani Consulate in Los Angeles with backing from the Ministry of IT & Telecom, Ministry of Commerce, Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). Addressing the audience, Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, emphasized the government’s commitment to achieving a $25 billion export target. She highlighted initiatives designed to foster an investor-friendly environment and acknowledged the sector’s progress, with IT exports surpassing $3 billion.
Strengthening U.S.-Pakistan Tech Ties
Held at Stanford University, the event attracted a diverse audience, including venture capitalists, IT firms, and tech professionals. Ambassador Sheikh emphasized Pakistan’s geo-strategic benefits, competitive quality, and a resilient young workforce, calling on U.S. businesses to explore the dynamic market. He urged the diaspora to act as a bridge for economic collaboration and addressed misconceptions about Pakistan’s investment climate, reaffirming its position as a global tech destination.
Showcasing Innovation and Collaboration
The conference featured a delegation led by PSEB’s CEO, presenting cutting-edge projects in AI, FinTech, Health Tech, and E-Commerce. U.S. State Department representatives and prominent Pakistani startups highlighted the sector’s growing capabilities. A panel discussion spotlighted success stories, including insights from a senior Google executive.
Ambassador Sheikh also introduced the “Digital Trinity” concept, envisioning a collaboration between U.S. technology, Saudi investment, and Pakistan’s skilled workforce to drive IT sector growth. The event concluded with optimism, showcasing the role of technology in strengthening U.S.-Pakistan ties and fueling economic progress.
The conference was hailed as a significant step forward in Pakistan’s economic diplomacy, setting the stage for transformative developments in the IT industry.