HBL and P@SHA forge partnership to promote Pakistan as a technology
hub
Caretaker Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication,
Dr. Umar Saif, expressed his confidence in Pakistan's IT sector's potential and
its vital role in stabilizing the country's economy. He emphasized the
government's proactive efforts to provide comprehensive support to the IT
industry and underscored the importance of showcasing "Brand
Pakistan" on a global stage. Dr. Saif made these remarks during the signing
ceremony of a strategic partnership between HBL and the Pakistan Software
Houses Association (P@SHA), which took place at the HBL Tower in Karachi on
Thursday.
Dr. Umar Saif further commented, "I am delighted to be
part of the event and hope that this collaboration will play a vital role in
fostering the growth and development of the IT sector, both domestically and
internationally." He also highlighted the role of the Special Investment
Facilitation Council (SIFC) in providing necessary facilities to boost the IT
& Telecom sector.
Ministry
of IT and Telecom urges banks to support IT & ITES sector
Dr. Saif brought attention to a recent SIFC decision,
allowing IT companies to retain 50% of their revenue in US dollar accounts and
providing them with corporate debit cards for international payments. This move
aims to incentivize the Information Technology (IT) and IT-enabled Services
(ITeS) sector to enhance export earnings and bring additional foreign exchange
into the country, as suggested by the IT industry (P@SHA).
It's worth noting that HBL, renowned as Pakistan's Best
Bank, has entered into a multi-year partnership with P@SHA, the country's sole IT
industry association. This collaboration aims to facilitate impactful
engagements at local and global levels. HBL's extensive interaction with IT and
digital stakeholders has granted it a profound understanding of the industry's
requirements, allowing the bank to offer customized financial and technological
solutions.
SBP
unveils fresh initiatives to boost IT exports and empower freelancers
Commenting on the initiative, Muhammad Aurangzeb, President
& CEO of HBL, stated, "We believe that the IT industry has the
potential to be a major driver of economic growth and job creation in Pakistan.
HBL's collaboration with P@SHA is a testament to the Bank's commitment to
becoming a 'Technology Company with a Banking License.' It will provide an
opportunity for HBL to engage with key stakeholders in the IT, freelancer,
software, and gaming industry and showcase its innovative financial solutions
and services tailored to the specific needs of the IT sector."
Muhammad Zohaib Khan, Chairman of P@SHA, also addressed the
occasion, saying, "With HBL by our side, P@SHA is ready to embark on a
transformative journey for Pakistan's tech landscape. This strategic partnership
will propel us toward realizing our vision of making Pakistan a hub for
technology excellence. Together, we will open new doors of opportunity,
innovation, and global recognition for our IT industry."
Source: Hamariweb