Pakistan projects digital economy push as CPEC 2.0 shifts focus toward Tech and innovation

Pakistan is seeking to position itself as a regional hub for digital innovation, with authorities linking the country’s expanding IT base and youth talent to a broader shift toward technology-led economic development.

The outlook was presented on Wednesday by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar while addressing the launch ceremony of the IBI Pakistan Digital Economy Headquarters in Islamabad, according to the Foreign Office.

He said the government envisions transforming Pakistan into a regional centre for the digital economy, supported by rising investment opportunities in information technology, digital services, and innovation-driven sectors.

Dar said the digital economy is expanding rapidly in Pakistan and offers significant potential for foreign investment, technology partnerships, and broader innovation-led growth.

He linked this trajectory to the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), describing it as a transition from conventional infrastructure projects to what he termed intelligent infrastructure, including artificial intelligence, ICT systems, and digital connectivity frameworks.

The deputy prime minister also highlighted the country’s young demographic and growing technology workforce as structural advantages in competing for regional digital investment.

Reaffirming bilateral ties, he described the Pakistan–China All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership as a long-standing relationship now entering a phase of deeper digital and economic integration.

He said the launch of the IBI Pakistan Digital Economy Headquarters reflects increasing international confidence in Pakistan’s role as a platform for technology deployment and digital transformation.

Dar added that strengthening cooperation in emerging technologies would be essential for sustainable growth, innovation capacity, and regional connectivity going forward.