PM Shehbaz Orders Issuance of Visas to Foreign Investors Within 24 Hours  

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Tuesday directed the issuance of visas within 24 hours to foreign businessmen seeking to collaborate with Pakistani IT companies.   The direction, based on recommendations from the Pakistan Software Export Board, aims to attract global investors to Pakistan’s IT sector and bolster its contribution to the economy.   The premier emphasized simplifying visa processes and ensuring a conducive environment for foreign investment in the IT industry.  Chairing a review meeting on IT Ministry affairs, the prime minister expressed satisfaction with measures taken to increase IT exports to $25 billion in the next five years. He instructed the authorities to simplify Right of Way regulations to accelerate the expansion of fiber optic infrastructure and improve broadband services nationwide.  He also stressed the importance of equipping the youth with IT training aligned with global standards to increase overseas employment opportunities.   Authorities briefed him on plans to raise the number of freelancers from 1.4 million to 2 million in two years and train over 300,000 individuals through the DigiSkills program by June 2025, with an additional target of 900,000 trainees in the subsequent two years.  The meeting highlighted the need for a comprehensive marketing strategy to promote Pakistan’s IT sector globally. Officials detailed ongoing efforts to expand broadband coverage, enhance its accessibility, and increase internet speeds. Progress on the National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy was also discussed, with its approval expected next month following consultations.