Islamabad: Google has opened its first local office in Pakistan, marking a significant expansion of its formal presence in the country and signalling a broader role in Pakistan’s digital economy.
The development was announced following a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and a nine-member Google delegation led by Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy Wilson L White.
White briefed the prime minister on Google’s plans for Pakistan, including efforts to expand digital skills programmes and strengthen the company’s engagement with local businesses and technology partners.
According to the briefing, Google intends to build on its existing initiatives in Pakistan, with a particular focus on information technology, artificial intelligence and gaming. The company also sees potential to expand opportunities for the country’s large young population through technology and skills development programmes.
Google highlighted the potential of Chromebooks assembled in Pakistan through partnerships with local companies. White said the devices could eventually be exported to other countries in the region, potentially creating opportunities for local manufacturers and strengthening Pakistan’s role in regional technology supply chains.
The company’s new office is expected to provide a more formal base for its engagement with Pakistan as the government pursues digital transformation and seeks greater technology investment.
During the meeting, Sharif highlighted the government’s “Digital Nation Pakistan” vision and ongoing efforts to improve IT infrastructure and expand training in information technology and artificial intelligence. He also welcomed Google’s decision to establish a local office and called for greater cooperation on digital skills and economic opportunities.
The prime minister said Google’s existing programmes had created opportunities for young Pakistanis and expressed hope that the company would expand such initiatives.
The new office was formally inaugurated with a plaque-unveiling ceremony attended by Sharif, White, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker and other officials.
Google’s entry into a formal local office comes as Pakistan seeks to develop its technology sector, increase digital skills and enable local businesses to access international markets.
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