Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared that Pakistan must urgently align itself with global digital financial trends to combat corruption and improve governance. During a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the Prime Minister emphasized that the world is rapidly shifting toward digital economies, and Pakistan cannot afford to be left behind.
Digital Transformation for National Development
Chairing the crucial meeting, PM Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that a cashless economy will significantly improve governance while dramatically reducing corruption opportunities. He stressed that ongoing efforts to transform Pakistan into a digital nation are already showing positive results, with specific measures yielding tangible benefits.
The Prime Minister revealed a historic milestone: for the first time in Pakistan's history, funds for the Benazir Income Support Program were distributed to beneficiaries through digital wallets during Ramadan. This successful implementation demonstrates the practical benefits of digital financial systems for social welfare programs.
Rural Awareness and Nationwide Implementation
Recognizing the challenges in broader implementation, PM Shehbaz directed authorities to raise awareness in rural areas to ensure no community is excluded from the digital transformation. He emphasized that eliminating the informal economy requires comprehensive inclusion of all regions and demographics.
The Prime Minister set clear directives for achieving well-defined economic objectives within specified timeframes. He stressed that the transition to a cashless economy plays a vital role in sustainable economic development and must be pursued with urgency and determination.
Tangible Progress in Digital Infrastructure
During the briefing, officials reported significant advancements in digital payment systems. QR code implementation for electricity and gas bills has already facilitated billions of rupees in digital payments, creating a more efficient and transparent system.
Additional progress includes the integration of Islamabad's government services mobile application with Raast, and the new requirement for digital payments as a condition for business license issuance. Retail stores across the country have also begun implementing QR codes to simplify digital transactions for consumers.
Perhaps most significantly, officials reported that 68 percent of Pakistan's population has achieved financial inclusion, marking substantial progress toward comprehensive digital economic participation. The Prime Minister directed that this coverage must be expanded further to include all citizens.
The meeting concluded with reinforced commitment to accelerating Pakistan's digital transformation, positioning the nation to compete effectively in the global digital economy while strengthening domestic economic systems and reducing corruption through technological innovation.
