Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has described digitization of economy as a key requisite for driving economic growth, mobilizing resources for development and ending Pakistan's reliance on persistent financing.

He made this statement during a meeting with a delegation of Veon Group in Islamabad today [Friday].

The Minister reiterated the government's resolve for tax reforms with a focus on people-processed technology and end-to-end digitalization to enhance transparency, plug leakages and improve services. He described the use of data analytics as vital to have a fact-based discussion rather than harassment around FBR's efforts for revenue generation and resource mobilization.

Muhammad Aurangzeb also reiterated the government's resolve to move ahead with its privatization programme. He said there is a real appetite amongst international investors and bilateral partners to invest in Pakistan. However, this appetite for foreign investment in Pakistan can only be materialized through the private sector which has the potential, energy and drive to come up with bankable, investable projects for joint business ventures and collaborations with the foreign investors.

The delegation was led by founder and chairman of the Board Veon Group Mr. Augie K. Fabela, while Group CEO VEON Mr. Kaan Terzioglu, Group Director of Corporate Affairs VEON Ms. Marine Babayan, and CEO Jazz Mr. Aamir Ibrahim were also present.