#Pakistan #Islamabad #DFDI Forum #Digital Cooperation Organization

Groundbreaking Digital Investment Forum in Pakistan

In a significant leap in the realm of digital investments, Pakistan has recently hosted the inaugural 2025 Digital Foreign Direct Investment (DFDI) Forum, in collaboration with the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO). Held on April 29 and 30, 2025, in Islamabad, the forum gathered an impressive assembly of 700 global leaders, including heads of state, policy makers, and influential tech leaders.

The DFDI Forum marks Pakistan's first national implementation of the DCO's initiative on digital foreign direct investments, having already accumulated $700 million in digital investments. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya for her role in advancing Pakistan's digital investment ecosystem and emphasized the importance of collective leadership in navigating digital transformation.

A Dynamic Platform for Dialogue

Lasting two days, the DFDI Forum acted as a strategic platform designed to facilitate discussions on redefining digital investment frameworks and unlocking fresh investment opportunities. The event featured a significant presentation on Pakistan's FDI outlook report, spotlighting the country’s pioneering efforts in digital development. This report outlines the four pillars of the DCO's initiative and delineates six strategic priority actions aimed at attracting sustainable digital investments.

During the closing remarks, Prime Minister Sharif expressed pride in Pakistan's trajectory towards digital transformation. He stated, "The success of the DFDI Forum is a testament to our dedication to cultivating a thriving digital economy and investment-friendly environment through a multi-stakeholder approach." He stressed the role of the DCO and its member states in crafting a sustainable development plan beneficial to Pakistan's digital ecosystem and other nations navigating their own digital transformations.

DCO: A Catalyst for Digital Investment

The event attracted representatives from over 45 countries, with participants seeing over 40 international companies and startups showcasing their innovations. Noteworthy attendees included more than 35 ministers and official delegations from different countries, along with over 30 international speakers and more than 50 chief executives from leading tech firms.

Deemah AlYahya acknowledged the exceptional efforts of the Pakistani government and the Prime Minister in facilitating the forum's success. She noted, "This forum exemplifies the transformative power of investment to bridge the digital divide and expedite sustainable growth." The DCO remains committed to fostering a global investment climate where nations can leverage digital innovation for inclusive growth.

Future Directions for Digital Cooperation

As one of the founding members of the DCO established in November 2020 during the G20 summit in Riyadh, Pakistan is positioning itself strategically as a leader in the digital economy. With its upcoming presidency in 2026, Pakistan aims to propel global discussions and partnerships that will shape the future of digital investment.

The Digital Cooperation Organization is the world’s first autonomous intergovernmental organization focused on the acceleration of an inclusive and sustainable digital economy. By gathering ministries of communication and information technology from its member states, the DCO aims to empower youth, women, and entrepreneurs while leveraging the benefits of the digital economy to stimulate economic growth and social prosperity.

In conclusion, the DFDI Forum bears witness to a new chapter for Pakistan as it embarks on the journey towards a robust digital future, setting the stage for unique collaborations and innovations that could reshape global economic landscapes.