Islamabad, February 13, 2026: U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker hosted a webinar on February 12 linking 25 representatives from American information and communication technology (ICT) firms with senior Pakistani officials to explore commercial opportunities in Pakistan’s expanding IT sector.
Federal Secretary of the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication Zarar Hasham Khan, Chairman of the Special Technology Zones Authority Azfar Manzoor, and Project Director of the Special Investment Facilitation Council Syed Hadi joined the session to discuss investment prospects, regulatory frameworks, and partnership potential.
In her remarks, Baker reaffirmed the commitment of the U.S. Embassy in Pakistan to strengthening economic ties between United States and Pakistan. She noted that enhanced cooperation could unlock Pakistan’s IT potential, create opportunities for American businesses, and support the country’s economic growth.
She added that the U.S. Embassy and consulates stand ready to assist American companies entering the Pakistani market by connecting them with local partners and ensuring access to critical resources and information. “We are committed to facilitating investment, promoting trade, and advocating for policies that improve the business environment,” she said.
The webinar spotlighted growth areas including cloud computing, data centers, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence—fields in which U.S. companies bring established expertise and innovation. Pakistani officials also outlined government initiatives aimed at advancing digital policies, expanding broadband connectivity, promoting technology parks, and encouraging innovation through regulatory reforms and incentives.
Baker emphasized the timeliness of deeper technology cooperation, noting that the United States is celebrating its 250th anniversary this year—an occasion highlighting American innovation and leadership in the technology sector.
The session was held under the “Direct Line for American Businesses” program, designed to provide U.S. companies with direct access to foreign government officials and market experts to support informed international investment decisions. It marked the third such engagement led by Baker and the U.S. Mission in Pakistan over the past year to promote bilateral trade and investment.
