Microsoft’s departure from Pakistan, severe internet outages, and billions of dollars in unpaid dues by telecom operators were among the urgent concerns discussed in a thorough meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunications on Monday.
Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja explained during the meeting, which was presided over by MNA Syed Aminul Haq, that Microsoft does not have an operational presence in Pakistan and that the firm employs just five people there. “Whether these five employees will be leaving is still up in the air,” she said.
According to Shaza Fatima, Microsoft’s recent decision was a component of a global restructuring that saw more than 16,000 layoffs over the course of the previous year. She underlined that efforts are underway by the government to establish Microsoft’s operational office in Pakistan.
She also disclosed that discussions regarding entering the local market are still going on with Google.
Members of the Internet Connectivity Crisis Committee expressed grave worries on the poor quality of telecom and internet services available in the nation. Even in major cities like Karachi, more than 70% of Pakistanis lack adequate internet connectivity, as member Mahesh Malani pointed out.
According to Malani, “digitalisation is impossible without dependable internet access.” “Telecom companies have become profit-making machines, while service quality continues to decline,” said Aminul Haq, the chairman of the committee. Additionally, he ordered a special meeting to discuss the current internet outage in Panjgur, Balochistan.
PTA Chairman Hafeezur Rehman acknowledged the internet issues and stated that “4G or 5G cannot be operated without sufficient fibre infrastructure.”
He recognised that ongoing problems that cause delays in service upgrades include spectrum auctions, legal proceedings, and the potential merger of two telecom companies.
Unpaid debts by LDI operators totalling Rs70 billion
The committee also talked about the more than Rs70 billion that Long Distance and International (LDI) operators still owe. Nine corporations owe the money, according to the PTA chairman’s brief, and the process has been blocked since 2004 by a number of legal disputes.
He added that four significant operators have refused to make payments, even in installments, and that “there is not yet consensus with LDI operators regarding repayments.” He explained that the only person with the power to offer payment relief is the federal cabinet.
In response, a four-person subcommittee led by Arbab Sher Ali was established by the committee to look into the issue and speak with LDI officials. “This delay is costing the government billions,” said Chairman Aminul Haq, who vehemently sought a resolution.
