State Minister for Information Technology, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, denied government involvement in the recent internet slowdown experienced across Pakistan, attributing the issue instead to the use of virtual private networks (VPNs) by users.
During a press conference in Islamabad on Sunday, Khawaja addressed the public’s frustration over the intermittent internet disruptions, insisting that the government had not intentionally blocked or slowed down internet services. She explained that after consulting with experts and investigating the situation, it was determined that the slowdown was linked to users utilizing VPNs, which can reduce phone performance.
Khawaja’s comments come as millions in Pakistan continue to experience difficulties accessing the internet, particularly mobile data services in certain areas. Industry experts, including the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), have suggested that the issue may be related to increased security measures, including the installation of a firewall to prevent unwanted content from spreading.
Earlier in the week, Khawaja had defended the government’s decision to implement an internet firewall, describing it as a necessary cybersecurity measure, similar to those adopted by other countries. She emphasized the importance of bolstering cybersecurity capabilities in response to evolving threats.
Khawaja also mentioned that she remains in contact with IT authorities regarding the ongoing internet issues, with a meeting scheduled for next week to further address the matter. She revealed that the government is working on laying four additional internet cables across Pakistan to enhance connectivity.
In her address, the minister also shared future plans, including the introduction of 5G spectrum in Pakistan by 2025, which she said would offer the fastest internet speeds available. She also highlighted the foundation of IT Parks in Islamabad and Karachi, initiatives that are expected to create over 10,000 jobs and generate millions of dollars in revenue, with support from South Korea.
Khawaja further announced the establishment of at least 250 e-employment centers across Pakistan, in partnership with provincial governments. She praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for allocating over Rs60 billion to the IT sector in the budget, despite challenging economic conditions, and celebrated the sector’s export earnings of Rs3 billion.
The minister underscored the priority given to the IT sector by both the Prime Minister and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), mentioning that a digitization commission, led by the Prime Minister, is being set up to further advance the sector’s development.
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