Starlink, Web1 and PayPal are coming to Pakistan: IT minister
Technology
National Space Policy has enabled international communication companies to operate here
(Web Desk) - Caretaker Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication Dr Umar Saif has announced Starlink, Web1, and paypal will launch their services in Pakistan.
The minister said the National Space Policy had been approved by the cabinet, enabling commercial satellite communication businesses to employ low-orbit satellites for fast internet services throughout the nation, particularly in remote areas.
After years of delay, Elon Musk's Starlink may be the first company to launch satellite services in Pakistan now that the new space policy is ready to go.
All international companies including Starlink would be permitted to begin offering satellite communication services after securing a licence from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority and a no-objection certificate from the Strategic Plans Division.
The government has estimated that the nation loses $40 million annually as a result of unregulated space sector.
He claimed that with PayPal's help, the IT ministry has also made it possible for freelancers to remit their payments through intermediaries.
The official launch ceremony is set for Jan 11, and although PayPal is not going directly to Pakistan, an arrangement has been made to transfer remittances from PayPal through a third party.
This programme will enable freelancers to legally receive their remittances with the least amount of fees, and it will assist double IT exports.
In order to establish Pakistan as a "tech destination," Dr Saif stated that his ministry had also implemented a standardised quality test for IT graduates and offered mobile phones to consumers on an installment basis.
Additionally, 10,000 e-Rozgar centres with more amenities for freelancers and startups have been constructed nationwide by the IT ministry.
