Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday directed the authorities concerned to finalise a short, medium, and long-term strategy based on timelines for the development of the Information Technology (IT) sector.

Chairing a meeting on the promotion of the IT sector in the country, he called for early implementation of the strategy.

Prime Minister Khan said Pakistan has immense potential in the IT sector. The government is taking steps on a priority basis to organise experts in information technology, especially freelancers, he pointed out.

Underlining the importance of building Special Technology Zones (STZ) in the country, he said the establishment of STZs will play a pivotal role in the development of the IT sector.

PM Khan said various challenges have emerged during the pandemic; however, it has also created countless opportunities for IT professionals to work from home.

He was apprised that Pakistan currently has the potential to earn $5 billion foreign exchange in the IT sector; however, due to the unavailability of facilities and lack of discipline in the sector the foreign exchange is lower than the potential.