ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting foreign investors and strategic technology partners.

In a meeting with a delegation from Ericsson at the PM’s House, the premier welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for Ericsson’s longstanding investment in Pakistan and its contributions to the development of the country’s telecommunications sector. He acknowledged Ericsson’s presence in Pakistan, spanning more than six decades.

The delegation was led by Patrick Johansson, President and Head of Market Area Europe, Middle East and Africa at Ericsson.

The meeting focused on the importance of next-generation digital connectivity for economic growth, productivity and public service delivery.

The prime minister highlighted Pakistan’s interest in learning from Ericsson’s global experience in advanced networks, including 5G, while ensuring secure and resilient infrastructure aligned with national needs.

Discussions also covered cooperation on digital skills development, financial inclusion and the expansion of cashless payment systems, as well as the use of technology to strengthen disaster preparedness and institutional resilience.

The Ericsson delegation praised the government of Pakistan’s efforts to develop and upgrade the country’s IT infrastructure, including the 5G spectrum auction.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for IT Shaza Fatma Khawaja, SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi and senior officials also attended the meeting.

World Economic Forum

Mr Shehbaz will leave for Switzerland on Jan 19 to attend the 56th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, an official in the PM Office told Dawn.

Published in Dawn, January 14th, 2026