ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan directed on Monday the authorities concerned to finalise a short, medium and long-term strategy based on timelines for development of the Information Technology (IT) sector.

Chairing a meeting on promotion of the IT sector in the country, he called for early implementation of the strategy.

Prime Minister Khan said Pakistan has immense potential in the IT sector. The government is taking steps on a priority basis to organise experts in information technology, especially freelancers, he pointed out.

Underlining the importance of building Special Technology Zones (STZ) in the country, he said establishment of STZs will play a pivotal role in development of IT sector.

PM Khan said various challenges have emerged during the pandemic; however, it has also created countless opportunities for IT professionals to work from home.

He was apprised that Pakistan currently has the potential to earn $5 billion foreign exchange in IT sector; however, due to unavailability of facilities and lack of discipline in the sector the foreign exchange is lower than the potential.

The prime minister was informed that the IT sector could generate five billion dollars in foreign exchange, however, the lack of proper strategy and facilities kept the potential far below its capacity.

The meeting was attended by IT expert Masood Jabbar, Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Major General (retd) Amir Azeem Bajwa, Chairman Special Technology Zone Authority Amir Hashmi, CEO National Information Technology Board Syed Shabahat Ali Shah. NNI