Telecom sector needs to upgrade infrastructure, says minister

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunications Syed Aminul Haque has said that the telecom sector needs to upgrade its infrastructure to improve the quality of services in Pakistan.

The Ministry of IT is providing 90 to 95 percent subsidy for the provision of mobile services and broadband in un-served and under-served areas, telecom companies should now play their role for gradation in urban areas.

He said this while talking to a delegation led Jørgen C Arentz Rostrup, EVP and Head of Asia at his office here on Thursday.

The delegation included CEO Telenor Irfan Wahab Khan and CCAO Kamal Ahmed. Other officials including Additional Secretary and Member Telecom were also present in the meeting.

Haque said that for the process of digitalisation, it is essential to address public grievances and expand networking while the Ministry of IT and Telecommunication is working expeditiously to remove all obstacles and enhance cooperation with the telecom sector for the fulfilment of Digital Pakistan Vision, this includes high-level efforts to reduce taxes on the telecom sector and other issues related to SBP and RoW.

The minister said: “Digital world needs innovation in all fields including e-commerce, daily routine, without it, no one can compete with the rapidly growing needs of the market.”

“As the record number of mobile phone and broadband subscribers grows in Pakistan, so does the quality of services. Similarly, the digital world requires innovation in all areas, including e-commerce and day-to-day routines,” he added.

Jørgen C Arentz Rostrup, EVP and Head of Asia and Telenor Group said that Telenor reiterated its commitment to being a key partner in Pakistan’s digital journey.

Jørgen Rostrup commented: “Telenor is committed to supporting Pakistan in its next stage of digital growth. Together we must incorporate new technologies to bridge the digital and connectivity divide in the country. Not only does this ensure sustainable long-term growth, but a future-ready inclusive society that meets the digital needs of people and businesses.”

CEO Irfan Wahab said that connectivity is the backbone of advancing society, and we are taking steps on a daily basis to improve the services.

Chairman PTA, Maj Gen Amir Azeem Bajwa (retd) met with Executive Vice President and Head of Asia, Telenor Group, Jørgen C Arentz Rostrup and CEO Telenor Pakistan, Irfan Wahab Khan at the PTA Headquarters, Islamabad.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed the future plans of Telenor Pakistan for enhancing connectivity, introducing new technologies and improving digital infrastructure.

There was an agreement on continued mutual collaboration in new opportunities pertaining to realising the vision of ‘Digital Pakistan’.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2022