(Web Desk Monitoirng) — State Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja addressed the ongoing concerns about the recent internet slowdown in Pakistan, dismissing claims that the government was responsible.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad on Sunday, Khawaja attributed the slow internet speeds to the widespread use of Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) by users, rather than any government intervention.
“I can swear that the government of Pakistan did not block or slow down the internet,” Khawaja asserted, responding to the public frustration over the intermittent connectivity issues. She explained that turning on a VPN can slow down mobile phones, which might be why users are experiencing difficulties.
Khawaja acknowledged that millions across the country have faced problems accessing internet services, particularly mobile data in some regions. This has led to widespread speculation and concern. Some experts, including the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP), have suggested that the slowdown might be due to increased security measures and surveillance linked to the installation of a firewall designed to control access to certain content.
Earlier in the week, Khawaja had defended the government’s decision to implement the firewall, describing it as a necessary cybersecurity measure. “Every country in the world takes steps to protect against cybersecurity threats. With the evolution of these threats, states need to enhance their capabilities to respond effectively,” she said on Thursday.
The minister also revealed ongoing efforts to resolve the internet issues, noting that the government is in constant communication with IT authorities and that a meeting on the matter is scheduled for next week. Additionally, she announced that four new internet cables are being laid across Pakistan to improve connectivity.
In her press conference, Khawaja also touched on future plans for the country’s IT sector. She announced the government’s intention to introduce 5G technology by 2025, promising it would provide the fastest internet speeds available. The minister highlighted the foundation of IT parks in Islamabad and Karachi, which are expected to generate over 10,000 jobs and attract millions of dollars in investment. These projects are being developed in collaboration with South Korea.
Moreover, Khawaja shared that 250 e-employment centers will be established nationwide, in partnership with provincial governments. She also emphasized the government’s commitment to the IT sector, mentioning that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has allocated over Rs60 billion to the sector in the budget, despite economic challenges. She praised the sector’s export performance, noting it had reached Rs3 billion.
Khawaja concluded by reiterating that the IT sector remains a priority for both the Prime Minister and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). She announced that a digitization commission, to be chaired by the Prime Minister, will be established to oversee these initiatives.
