Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has inaugurated Google's first office in Pakistan. The Prime Minister, alongside Google's Vice President Wilson White, US Charg© d' Affaires Natalie Baker, and other dignitaries, unveiled a plaque marking the significant occasion.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister interacted with a nine-member delegation from Google, led by Wilson White, during the ceremony. He welcomed the delegation and emphasized Pakistan's ongoing digital transformation, highlighting the government's vision of "Digital Nation Pakistan." The Prime Minister informed the delegation about the advanced stage of several initiatives aimed at developing the national digital ecosystem.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government's commitment to upgrading IT infrastructure and discussed ongoing programs focused on training youth in IT and Artificial Intelligence. He stressed the importance of collaboration with Google, a leading global technology company, to achieve these goals.
The Prime Minister expressed appreciation for Google's decision to establish an office in Pakistan, noting that it would strengthen the partnership between the country and the company. He praised Google's role in advancing Pakistan's digital economy and its initiatives that have provided employment opportunities for thousands of Pakistani youth.
Highlighting the potential of Pakistan's youth in the digital realm, the Prime Minister conveyed hope that Google would further expand its efforts in upskilling and empowering them. With Google's local presence now established, he noted that high-impact programs could be further scaled up.
Wilson White briefed the Prime Minister on Google's future plans, stating that the local office would enhance Google's commitment to accelerating Pakistan's digital transformation. He emphasized the creation of long-term opportunities for Pakistani youth and the potential for local businesses to expand globally.
White also expressed satisfaction with the ongoing Chromebook assembly line established by Google in collaboration with local partners. He highlighted the potential for Chromebooks assembled in Pakistan to be exported to other countries in the region. White reiterated Google's recognition of the immense potential of Pakistan's young population and its eagerness to expand upskilling programs in IT, AI, gaming, and other areas.