Pakistan advances Digital Security Agenda through policy launch
Cyber Shield Policy: DG PID speaking at Iqra University
Islamabad/Karachi: Pakistan strengthened its national digital-security framework through three major initiatives held in Islamabad and Karachi — the launch of the Cyber Shield Policy by the Ministry of IT & Telecommunication (MoIT), the Annual Cyber Security Conference 2025, and an outreach seminar by the Press Information Department (PID) Karachi focusing on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in countering misinformation.
In Islamabad, Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja highlighted the newly launched Cyber Shield Policy at a national event titled “Cybersecurity, Cyber Shield Policy and the Future.” She described the policy as a key milestone in Pakistan’s digital defence, offering comprehensive protection to e-governance platforms, the financial sector, and sensitive health data. The minister said the policy introduces a unified security framework for both public and private institutions, marking a new phase in the country’s cybersecurity preparedness. She added that increasing cyber threats have elevated digital security to the level of national security.
Ms. Khawaja also appreciated the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in supporting digital initiatives and commended Pakistani youth for their contribution to safeguarding the country’s digital space during recent conflicts. Referring to the Digital Nation Pakistan initiative, she noted that the Prime Minister is personally overseeing the country’s digital transformation, alongside implementation of the National Artificial Intelligence Policy and support for AI-based companies, which are creating employment opportunities and helping boost IT exports.
Complementing these efforts, the Annual Cyber Security Conference 2025 was held at the Serena Hotel, Islamabad. Organized by EPL in partnership with NADRA Technologies Limited, the conference brought together CEOs, CISOs, diplomats, technologists, and law-enforcement officials to examine emerging cyber threats. Asad Shabbir, Assistant Director at the Digital Communications Directorate (DCD), Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, participated as a panelist and highlighted vulnerabilities in digital communications, stressing the need for integrated, real-time institutional responses.
Conference discussions focused on strengthening cyber readiness, modernizing regulatory frameworks, and building resilience across public and private sectors. International experts shared global best practices, while speakers emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women and youth in the cybersecurity workforce. Key themes included protection of critical infrastructure, financial-sector security, board-level cyber governance, and the growing role of AI in both offensive and defensive cyber operations. Participants urged updates to cyber laws, stronger cross-sector cooperation, and continued investment in digital skills development.
Meanwhile, in Karachi, PID organized an outreach seminar at Iqra University on “The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Combating Misinformation.” The event was attended by DG PID Karachi Ms. Irum Tanweer, HOD Media Studies Mr. Rashid Shakir, Dean Dr. Wajiha Rizvi, and Mrs. Filza Rizwan, Manager PR & Events, along with faculty members and students. The seminar highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and academia in promoting digital literacy and addressing misinformation.
The programme opened with an overview of PID’s mandate by Executive Officer Ms. Bakhtawer, while Information Officer Noor Ali delivered the keynote address. He outlined the use of AI-based monitoring systems, the FactCheckerMOIB platform, and the Central Communication Cell (3C) model in safeguarding information integrity. Citing Pakistan’s narrative management during the May 2025 Pakistan–India tensions, he said the episode demonstrated the growing significance of information warfare in the modern era.
A question-and-answer session led by Ms. Irum Tanweer focused on AI ethics, digital responsibility, and communication risks, drawing strong engagement from students. Participants praised the seminar’s practical relevance and expressed interest in future joint research and awareness programmes.
Together, the Cyber Shield Policy launch, the Annual Cyber Security Conference 2025, and the PID Karachi AI outreach seminar underscore Pakistan’s expanding commitment to protecting its digital ecosystem, strengthening cyber governance, and empowering youth to contribute to a secure, ethical, and technologically resilient future.
