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The 26th meeting of the South Asian Telecommunications Regulatory Council (SATRC) was held in Islamabad, bringing together regional regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss collaboration, consumer protection, and the region’s digital future.
Speaking at the event, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Hafeez ur Rehman highlighted the importance of safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair regulatory practices.
“Protecting consumers is one of PTA’s primary responsibilities as a regulator,” he said, emphasizing that the SATRC plays a key role in shaping telecom policies and coordinating efforts among South Asian countries.
He urged member nations to strengthen cooperation on cross-border connectivity, digital innovation, and spectrum management, adding that a unified approach was essential to build a sustainable digital future for the region.
Addressing the conference, Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the meeting comes at a crucial time as the world rapidly adopts new technologies. She reaffirmed that Pakistan is working in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of transforming the country into a Digital Nation.
“This conference is taking place as the global technology landscape evolves,” she said. “In South Asia, connectivity and technology have become central to development discussions. We must establish new regulations to promote digitalization and ensure that no one is left behind.”
Fatima highlighted ongoing challenges such as the digital gender gap and internet accessibility issues, urging delegates to include cross-border data governance in their policy discussions.
The minister also shared progress under Pakistan’s Digital Nation Bill, passed in January 2025, noting that multiple initiatives have already begun under its framework. As part of Vision 2030, Pakistan aims to expand spectrum availability by 1,000 MHz, supporting 5G and other emerging technologies.
She added that digital transformation efforts are expected to create an economic impact of $20 billion over the next four years. Other milestones include reaching 200 million mobile phone subscribers, while the telecom sector now contributes Rs. 1.3 trillion annually to the national exchequer.
Pakistan’s IT exports have also risen by 20% annually for three consecutive years, reflecting strong growth in the country’s digital economy.
Delegates from across South Asia agreed that collaboration is essential for the region’s connectivity goals. The SATRC continues to serve as a vital platform for harmonizing telecom regulations, improving digital inclusion, and shaping a coordinated strategy for the region’s technological future.
As discussions concluded, participants reiterated their shared commitment: to work collectively toward a connected, secure, and inclusive digital South Asia.
