Minister of State for IT and Telecom Shaza Khawaja has pledged to overhaul the country’s internet infrastructure, promising to restore optimal internet speeds and strengthen the telecom sector’s foundation.
“My ministry is doing everything possible to ensure uninterrupted service in the industry. The recent rise in cyberattacks has heightened our vigilance, and we are taking swift and decisive actions to tackle these threats and enhance our digital defenses,” Shaza Fatima Khwaja said in an interview with a private news channel on Sunday.
Khawaja also reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the IT and telecom industries, highlighting this as a top priority. To meet this goal, the government is upgrading existing systems and focusing on key areas such as improving tower capacity, expanding broadband access, and addressing critical cybersecurity challenges. These efforts aim to improve coverage, drive economic growth, and ensure a secure online environment for citizens.
In response to a question, the minister mentioned that the Ministry of Interior would instruct the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to investigate issues faced by citizens when sending videos while ensuring that overall internet speed remains unaffected.
Khawaja also shared that in case of any issues, the Interior Minister contacts the PTA for assistance. While acknowledging existing challenges, she reassured the public that the government is working diligently to address them. She emphasized that every citizen has the right to express their views, and although temporary disruptions on digital platforms may occur, they do not hinder freedom of speech.
On another matter, the minister confirmed that the government is currently upgrading its web management system, with a focus on enhancing cybersecurity measures to effectively combat cyberattacks and terrorism.
