Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima Khawaja represented Pakistan at the Global Cybersecurity Forum held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on October 1–2, 2025. Speaking on the theme “Next-Gen Cyber Resilience: Turning Tech Disruption into Security Innovation,” she highlighted the importance of building robust digital defenses in an era where cyber threats are rapidly evolving. Her participation underscored Pakistan’s commitment to positioning itself as an active contributor in global cybersecurity dialogues and strategies.
During her address, Khawaja emphasized that cybersecurity is no longer confined to being a purely technical challenge but has become a national priority and a shared global responsibility. With technology advancing at unprecedented speed, vulnerabilities and risks are expanding just as quickly. However, she pointed out that with every disruption comes an opportunity—an opportunity to innovate, collaborate, and strengthen digital resilience. She stressed that security innovation lies in recognizing threats early, using disruption as a catalyst for progress, and creating solutions that safeguard both national and global digital ecosystems.
Representing the Ministry of IT & Telecom, Khawaja explained the steps Pakistan is taking to enhance its cybersecurity posture. She shared that the government is working extensively to build a safer and more resilient digital ecosystem for the country, ensuring that citizens, businesses, and institutions can operate with trust in digital platforms. She also highlighted initiatives designed to empower local startups and innovators to develop indigenous cybersecurity solutions tailored to Pakistan’s specific challenges. By fostering such innovation, the Ministry aims not only to protect the country’s digital infrastructure but also to contribute to the global pool of security expertise.
Khawaja also spoke about the significance of international cooperation, noting that cyber threats are borderless and require a collaborative approach. She underlined Pakistan’s commitment to working with global partners to share knowledge, adopt best practices, and participate in joint efforts to counter emerging risks. Forums such as the one in Riyadh provide valuable opportunities for nations to exchange insights, strengthen partnerships, and collectively work toward cyber resilience. By taking part in this dialogue, Pakistan is signaling its readiness to engage at the global level and present its vision of a secure and digitally empowered future.
Her participation at the Global Cybersecurity Forum reflects Pakistan’s increasing involvement in shaping conversations around digital security and resilience. With the growing importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding economies and societies, Pakistan is seeking to ensure that its efforts align with international standards while addressing local needs. Khawaja’s engagement at the event reinforced the country’s ambition to transform challenges into opportunities for growth, innovation, and trust in the digital domain.
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