ISLAMABAD, Aug. 8 -- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the IT Ministry for crossing the $3.8 billion export mark. He now wants a strong plan to reach $30 billion. At a meeting on Friday, he reviewed projects from the IT Ministry and NITB. He said digitization is key for Pakistan's economic growth. He also called for hiring top talent to modernize the IT sector.

The Prime Minister highlighted efforts to support youth and women through IT programs. He said thousands found jobs through the Digital Youth Hub. He appreciated the growing number of female startups and training centers. He also praised the e-Office system for making government work paperless. It helped save both time and money.

Officials shared that IT exports grew 19% this...