Islamabad (GNP): Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja received a senior delegation from the Gates Foundation, led by Dr. Kalpana Kochhar, Interim President of the Global Policy & Advocacy Division, and Dr. Anita Zaidi, President of the Gender Equality Division.
During the meeting, Minister Khawaja spoke about the government’s “Digital Nation Pakistan” initiative, explaining how it aims to promote inclusive digital growth, modernize the delivery of public services, and build a strong digital economy.
She noted that international collaborations — especially with organizations like the Gates Foundation — are essential to achieving the goal of a digitally empowered Pakistan.
The delegation praised the progress Pakistan has made in digital transformation over recent years, particularly citing the reforms and initiatives led by the IT Ministry.
Both parties agreed to expand cooperation in areas such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, data systems, health technology, financial inclusion, capacity building, and technology-driven development.
The Gates Foundation is a philanthropic organization focused on significantly reducing disease and poverty while working toward greater global equality. It directs its resources and expertise toward organizations, research institutions, and global partnerships advancing a future free from infectious disease, one that offers economic opportunity for all and safeguards the health of mothers and infants.
In 2025, the foundation’s charitable contributions exceeded $8.4 billion, concentrated on innovative solutions with the greatest potential to save and improve lives.
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The organization’s work spans more than 48 program areas and involves thousands of partners on the ground, including nonprofits, government agencies, private companies, scientists, community organizations, and policy researchers.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
