State Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, addressed concerns about the recent internet slowdown across Pakistan, denying any government role during a press conference in Islamabad on Sunday. Instead, she attributed the slowdown to individuals’ widespread use of virtual private networks (VPNs), explaining that activating a VPN can decelerate devices.
Khawaja assured the public, stating, “I can swear that the government of Pakistan did not block the internet or slow it down.” She acknowledged the frustration over intermittent internet issues and mentioned that the government had consulted with experts extensively to diagnose the problem.
Millions continue to experience difficulties accessing the internet, particularly mobile data users in certain regions. Some experts and the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) suggest that enhanced security measures, such as the recent implementation of a national firewall to filter content, might be causing the slowdown.
Earlier in the week, Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja defended the firewall as a crucial cybersecurity measure. She highlighted the global rise in cyber threats and emphasized the need for robust state defences. She also announced a forthcoming meeting with IT authorities to delve further into these internet issues.
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To enhance internet connectivity, Minister Khawaja revealed plans to install four additional internet cables in Pakistan and discussed introducing 5G technology by 2025, which is expected to improve internet speeds significantly.
Additionally, Khawaja underscored major developments in the IT sector, including the construction of IT Parks in Islamabad and Karachi. In collaboration with South Korea, this project aims to create over 10,000 jobs and generate substantial revenue. She also mentioned establishing 250 e-employment centres nationwide, developed in partnership with provincial governments.
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In her closing remarks, Khawaja noted that despite economic challenges, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has allocated over Rs60 billion to the IT sector in the budget, underscoring its priority within the national agenda. She also announced the establishment of a digitization commission to be led by the Prime Minister, reflecting the government’s commitment to advancing Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
