Mohsin Siddiqui (Chief Reporter)
Today marks a momentous occasion for Pakistan’s telecommunications and IT industry as it achieves three significant milestones through collaborative efforts with key entities including PTCL, SCO, PTA, De CIX, PEACE Cable, and China Mobile:
Landmark Agreement with China: In a groundbreaking development, Pakistan has inked an agreement with China to reroute their Internet traffic through Pakistani networks. This transformative move positions Pakistan as a pivotal regional hub for connectivity, promising substantial revenue gains from Internet transit traffic.
Launch of Carrier-Neutral IXP and Data Center: Etisalat, in a pioneering initiative, has established Pakistan’s premier carrier-neutral Internet Exchange Point (IXP) and Data Center. This establishment aims to enhance the reliability of internet connectivity nationwide, marking a significant stride towards bolstering Pakistan’s digital infrastructure.
Strategic Partnership with DE CIX: PTCL, in collaboration with DE CIX, a renowned German data center and IXP operator, is set to oversee the operations of the new data center. This strategic alliance brings a world-class data center operator to Pakistan, paving the way for the introduction of super-scaling cloud services such as AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure. Moreover, it establishes Pakistan as a local content hub for popular platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Netflix.
Empowering Local Internet Access: With these advancements, Pakistan’s internet users can now enjoy enhanced access to services within the country, marking a significant shift towards localized connectivity. Pakistan is poised to emerge as a hub of regional connectivity, fostering innovation and economic growth in the digital realm.
These achievements underscore Pakistan’s commitment to advancing its digital infrastructure and fostering a thriving ecosystem for technology and innovation. As the nation embarks on this transformative journey, the future of Pakistan’s telecom and IT sector shines bright with promise and potential.
