Pak-Saudi collaboration in IT, Telecom to further strengthen ties

ISLAMABAD In the realm of Information Tech- nology and Telecom, the collabora- tion between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, and strong presence of Pakistan at LEAP 2024, would further strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations. This premier technology event brings together some of the brightest minds globally, offering a dynamic platform for tech innova- tors, industry leaders, and experts to collaborate, explore innova- tions, establish partnerships, and engage with influential mentors and investors, said a news release received here on Tuesday. In the previous year, LEAP gen- erated over $9 billion in business, attracting over 172,000 individuals, including global tech leaders, IT pro- fessionals, speakers, tech gurus, and investors, establishing itself as the fastest-growing technology event worldwide. Pakistan contingent is one of the largest at this year’s LEAP with 162 sqm pavilion 74 companies and over 800 delegates demonstrat- inga robust Pakistani business pres ence with promising prospects in the KSA market. These companies are showcasing solutions in Al, IoT, blockchain, cyber security, cloud solutions, health tech, fintech, web and mobile app development, open source, e-commerce, data services and more. PSEB and P@SHA in collabo- ration with Pakistan Embassy in Riyadh and other stakeholders arranged “Saudi-Pak Tech Forum” on March 3, 2024 to set the tone for LEAP. Secretary General DCO Ms. Deemah Alyahya was the chief guest at the event. A considerable number of prominent Saudi Gov- ernment and private institutions attended the forum which provid ed a remarkable platform for Paki- stani companies to network with Saudi counterparts, IT industry, government institutions, and IT associations ahead of LEAP to cre- ate an additional pool of prospects & valuable business leads. Speaking on the occasion, CEO PSEB Ms. Aisha Moriani reiterat ed the need for both the nations to collaborate and build upon the success of Pakistani companies at LEAP 2023. Pakistan views this as a timely opportunity to show- case its IT/ITeS companies on the international trade platform and expand business in the Middle East market, particularly in Saudi Arabia, which is undergoing trans- formation with its Vision 2030. Saudi Arabia, boasting the largest economy in the Middle East and ranking among the top twenty globally, holds a significant share in the technology industry. Pakistan’s IT industry has expe- rienced remarkable growth, rank- ing among the country’s top five export sectors. The industry ben- efits from a robust infrastructure, including 40+ Software Technolo- gy Parks and Special Technology Zones, while exporting IT services to over 170 countries across var- ious domains. The government through the Pakistan Software Export Board (PSEB), actively supports the IT industry, offering 100% equity ownership, 100% re- patriation of capital and dividends, and income tax credits for IT ex- ports to foreign investors. Pakistan’s status as the fourth largest English-speaking nation and the second largest provider of online labor in software develop- ment positions it as an attractive Techdestination Pakistan’s strate- gic location positions it as a gate- way to Central Asia, making it an optimal choice for establishing a digital corridor providing access to Middle Eastern, African, and Asian states.-APP