SCO, a government-owned telecommunication service provider operating in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, and One Network Private Limited, the digital arm of Frontier Works Organization (FWO), have joined forces with Cybernet, Pakistan’s leading fixed-line telecommunications provider, in a strategic alliance. This tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signifying a collaborative effort, aims to establish a diverse route for China’s expanding digital traffic and facilitate cross-border connectivity to neighboring countries.
The signing ceremony, attended by the Director-General (DG) of SCO, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of One Network, Head of Business of One Network, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cybernet, carries significant importance. This alliance is poised to provide the telecommunication transit backbone for a shorter, more reliable, and low-latency route, ultimately leading to increased foreign exchange for Pakistan.
With a steadfast commitment to bridging the digital divide, SCO’s network infrastructure plays a pivotal role in expanding telecommunication services in the Northernmost areas of Pakistan. This collaboration synergizes SCO’s extensive network capabilities with the long-haul network infrastructure and expertise of One Network and Cybernet.
Simultaneously, their collective objective is to establish a robust long-haul terrestrial route from Khunjerab via Rawalpindi to Cybernet’s cable landing station in Karachi. This infrastructure will enable transit routes to Europe, East-Asia, and Africa via multiple subsea cables.
DG SCO emphasized, “Pakistan rightfully earns the title of a Regional Connectivity Hub due to its unique geographical location, offering the shortest route to China and the Central Asian Republics (CAR) reaching the Arabian Sea. In the realm of digital connectivity, Pakistan boasts optimal internet links connecting China and CAR to the Middle East (ME), Africa, and Europe. Furthermore, this presents a significant opportunity for Pakistan to emerge as a digital conduit linking China and Central Asian nations with global markets, thereby augmenting foreign exchange earnings for the country.”
“We are enthusiastic about this collaboration, marking a significant step in our commitment to enhancing nationwide and cross-border digital connectivity. Simultaneously, leveraging our built-to-purpose fiber-optic network across Pakistan, we aim to contribute towards the development of the Pakistan-China digital communication corridor,” said the CEO of One Network.
The Head of Business, One Network added, “This MOU underscores our dedication to optimizing our fiber-optic investments in digital infrastructure across motorways for ITS and Tolling. We stand ready to provide the telecommunication sector with an ultra-high bandwidth, ultra-low latency network, along with unparalleled 24/7 operations and maintenance of the network infrastructure, thereby boosting connectivity and regional economic growth.”
Situated near South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East, this pan-Pakistan Corridor serves as a vital nexus for regional connectivity and economic prosperity. Moreover, the routes across Pakistan also hold strategic significance in facilitating trade, promoting cooperation, and fortifying bilateral relations between Pakistan, China, and other neighboring countries.
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