Is Starlink satellite internet coming to Pakistan?
The 5G spectrum will be auctioned by the government in April 2024 to modernize digital infrastructure in the country.

Pakistan is discussing its possible services with Elon Musk-owned satellite internet company Starlink, said Minister of State for IT and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja.

"We are in talks with Starlink to bring them to Pakistan," Shaza Khawaja told the Senate Standing Committee on IT and Telecommunication, a local news outlet reported.

The minister's comments come amid extensive internet disruptions faced by millions of users throughout the country.

Shaza Khawaja further announced plans to auction 5G spectrum by April 2024 while moving towards a modernising of the country's digital infrastructure.

However, she conceded that the absence of investment in the IT sector during the last three years has made it challenging to face the increased demand for internet services.

VPN usage and internet slowdowns discussed

The meeting also covered concerns over VPN usage. Chairman of Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman, revealed that VPN licensing would start from January 1.

This is so as to cut risks associated with uncontrolled VPN services concerning data security.