After 19 years of operations in Pakistan, Etisalat, under its global technology group brand "e&," is set to expand its investments and operations in the country's telecommunications and ICT sectors. This commitment was recently reaffirmed by Etisalat Group CEO Hatem Dowidar during meetings withRead more
After 19 years of operations in Pakistan, Etisalat, under its global technology group brand “e&,” is set to expand its investments and operations in the country’s telecommunications and ICT sectors. This commitment was recently reaffirmed by Etisalat Group CEO Hatem Dowidar during meetings with Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on July 7, 2025.
Here’s a summary of Etisalat’s plans and current situation in Pakistan:
* Long-Term Investment Commitment: Etisalat has expressed a strong long-term investment commitment to Pakistan and is eager to expand its business. They have been successfully investing in Pakistan for 19 years and see further opportunities.
* Expansion in ICT and Telecom Sectors: Pakistan’s government has invited Etisalat to expand its investments in the country’s growing digital economy, particularly in the ICT and telecom sectors. Etisalat has shown interest in contributing to Pakistan’s digital connectivity and growth goals.
* PTCL Privatization: Etisalat currently holds a 26% stake in Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), a former state-owned enterprise that was partially privatized in 2006. The resolution of an unresolved asset transfer issue related to PTCL is crucial for the Pakistani government to move forward with broader privatization goals, especially those linked to IMF-supported economic reforms.
* Acquisition of Telenor Pakistan (December 2023): In late 2023, e& expanded its operations in Pakistan with the acquisition of Telenor’s local unit for $385 million. This strategic move aims for market consolidation, allowing e& to invest more, build next-generation networks, and drive digital transformation in the country.
* Business-Friendly Environment: Etisalat has praised the Pakistani government’s current investment-friendly policies, acknowledging that they have created better business opportunities for international companies.
* Workforce: Over 10,000 Pakistanis are currently employed and rendering valuable services in Etisalat’s operations in the country.
In essence, Etisalat (e&) is looking to deepen its presence in Pakistan, leveraging the country’s digital growth potential and contributing to its digital transformation goals, while also working with the government to resolve existing issues related to PTCL.
Aleema Khan is the sister of Imran Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. While she doesn't hold an official, elected position within the formal leadership structure of PTI (such as Chairman or Secretary-General), she plays a significant role as a close confidante and represeRead more
Aleema Khan is the sister of Imran Khan, the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. While she doesn’t hold an official, elected position within the formal leadership structure of PTI (such as Chairman or Secretary-General), she plays a significant role as a close confidante and representative of her brother, particularly during his imprisonment.
See lessHer activities within the party often involve:
* Conveying Imran Khan’s messages and directives: She frequently speaks to the media outside of Adiala Jail, where Imran Khan is imprisoned, delivering his instructions and views to the public and party members. This includes announcing protest plans and discussing the party’s strategies.
* Advocacy for Imran Khan: She is a prominent voice in highlighting the conditions of his imprisonment, claiming he is being denied basic facilities and legal rights.
* Political statements and commentary: Aleema Khan makes public statements on various political issues, often reflecting the party’s stance and criticizing the government or other political entities. She has, for instance, commented on a “minus-Imran” campaign, later clarifying it referred to the government’s attempts to isolate her brother.
* Allegations of power struggles: Reports indicate that she has been involved in internal power struggles within the PTI, particularly concerning her attempts to consolidate power and her relationship with Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi.
In essence, Aleema Khan acts as a key informal leader and a crucial communication channel for Imran Khan, especially given his current incarceration.