Caretaker Federal Minister for IT and Telecom, Dr. Umar Saif, has announced plans to establish 5,000 e-working centers across Pakistan, offering interest-free loans to freelancers to help set up these working stations. This initiative was discussed during a meeting with Finance Minister Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, where various key initiatives were addressed to boost the country’s IT and startup ecosystem.

One of the key topics during the meeting was the creation of a state-backed joint venture fund. Dr. Saif believes this initiative could attract more global investors to Pakistan’s startup ecosystem.

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Additionally, the 5,000 joint e-working centers are expected to serve as hubs for freelancers, providing access to interest-free loans and facilities for setting up these stations. Dr. Saif emphasized that this initiative could result in the generation of millions of employment opportunities.

Another important development discussed was the possibility of allowing the free use of US Dollars in this space. Dr. Saif explained that this move could boost investor confidence, as foreign accounts could be transferred to Pakistan, accelerating the flow of dollars into the country and leading to an immediate increase in IT exports.

Dr. Saif reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting both local and foreign investment in Pakistan’s growing IT sector. He also expressed plans to visit Saudi Arabia soon to explore investment opportunities in the IT sector.