Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, held a meeting with Chairperson Pakistan Digital Authority (PDA), Dr. Sohail Munir, to discuss digital transformation, digital finance and measures to improve the use of technology to enhance access to finance and support economic activity.
The Finance Minister emphasized the importance of ensuring that existing frameworks evolve alongside advancements in digital technology and emerging business models. The participants discussed the need for an enabling framework that recognizes electronic transactions and supports wider adoption of digital processes across trade and financial activities.
The discussion covered opportunities to improve access to finance through greater use of digital platforms and more efficient processes. The Finance Minister highlighted the importance of simplifying customer onboarding, strengthening data-sharing mechanisms and improving interoperability of financial data, including greater integration between banks and capital markets.
The meeting also discussed measures to facilitate wider participation in the capital market through digital platforms and streamlined account-opening processes. The potential for stronger integration between banking and capital-market systems was highlighted as an area that could support greater investor participation and access to investment opportunities.
The participants also exchanged views on improving the use and interoperability of data across government systems. The Finance Minister highlighted the potential of better-connected data to support policy formulation, planning and decision-making, including through greater use of technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
The meeting also covered the potential to strengthen digital infrastructure to support more efficient delivery of public and financial services. The Finance Minister highlighted the importance of ensuring that such initiatives are practical, scalable and aligned with the broader digital transformation objectives.
The Finance Minister and Chairperson PDA also discussed digital assets and tokenization, including potential applications in areas such as real estate and other investment assets. The importance of an appropriate framework and supporting mechanisms was highlighted to facilitate the responsible adoption of emerging technologies.
Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb appreciated the work being undertaken by the Pakistan Digital Authority and stressed the importance of focusing on practical, high-impact initiatives that can improve efficiency, facilitate access to finance and contribute to stronger digital capabilities across the economy.
The Finance Minister underscored the importance of sustained coordination with relevant stakeholders to advance digital initiatives, strengthen efficiency and support the continued development of Pakistan’s digital economy.
