3 min read
In an exclusive interview with TechJuice at GITEX GLOBAL 2025 in Dubai, Hatem Bamatraf, President and Group CEO of PTCL and Ufone, shared insights about Pakistan’s rapidly transforming telecom landscape. In the conversation, Bamatraf discussed the strategic vision behind the PTCL–Telenor Pakistan merger, which aims to enhance connectivity, expand digital inclusion, and strengthen Pakistan’s telecom ecosystem.
He emphasized that the merger is not merely about size but about delivering reliable networks, better coverage, and greater value to customers nationwide. Bamatraf also highlighted PTCL Group’s initiatives focused on network reliability, affordability, and community empowerment through technology and digital skills training.
Below is the full interview with Hatem Bamatraf, conducted at GITEX GLOBAL 2025, where he outlined PTCL Group’s plans, ongoing partnerships, and the vision for a more connected Pakistan.
Exclusive Interview with Hatem Bamatraf, President and Group CEO of PTCL & Ufone
Q1: Back in Dubai for GITEX, what does this event mean to you?
Hatem: It feels good to be back in Dubai for GITEX. For me, this event is about how technology can give more not only to enterprises but also to people, to society, to economies, and to the world. That’s the goal we’re working towards at PTCL and Ufone as part of the e&e family.
Q2: What’s driving your strategy in Pakistan?
Hatem: We’re focused on the fundamentals to build a robust network that works reliably for our customers everywhere. The goal is not only to provide seamless connectivity but also fast data at a fair value. Our priority is to connect the length and breadth of this country, be it a rural or an urban area.
Q3: How will the Ufone and Telenor Pakistan merger benefit customers?
Hatem: We’re bringing together the best of both companies, including diverse cultures, expertise, and skills that will be entirely focused on our customers. This isn’t about increasing scale for scale’s sake; it’s about delivering better coverage, better quality, and better value. We’ll communicate openly at every step because trust is earned through transparency.
Q4: What community initiatives are you most focused on here at GITEX?
Hatem: We’re expanding the Ba-Ikhtiar Project with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund to reach 23 districts, empowering over 2,000 women entrepreneurs through digital skills, training, and access to economic opportunities that can transform their lives. In addition, we have recently partnered with ConnectHear to launch the world’s first AI-based early warning system for the Deaf community. At PTCL Group, we believe in inclusion at every level of society.
Q5: Final thoughts for everyone at GITEX?
Hatem: GITEX is a platform of endless opportunities. It not only provides growth with purpose but also creates real impact, real experiences, and real connections. That’s exactly what drives us at PTCL and Ufone, turning technology into meaningful progress for people, businesses, and Pakistan’s digital future.
