Pakistan is moving rapidly toward a cashless economy as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif confirmed that all financial transactions will soon shift to a digital system. He said the government is giving top priority to this transition and has begun laying the foundation for a fully digitized payment network.
Review Meeting on Digital Transition
Chairing a high-level review meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister expressed satisfaction over the progress made so far. He stressed that digitizing the economy will make transactions faster, safer, and more transparent.
The meeting focused on steps already taken and the road ahead. PM Shehbaz directed all chief secretaries to extend full cooperation to ensure the Raast payment system reaches district governments. This, he said, will make digital payments accessible to people across the country, not just in major cities.
Digital IDs for Payments
Officials briefed the meeting on the creation of digital identifications through Pakistan Digital Public Infrastructure. These IDs will combine national identity cards, biometric data, and mobile phone numbers.
The prime minister was informed that these digital IDs will serve as the anchor of the payment ecosystem. Citizens will use them for secure digital transactions, including both public-to-government and government-to-public payments.
Read: Terrorism Foiled in Balochistan: CM Bugti Reveals Major Plot
Progress by Provincial Governments
The meeting highlighted that provincial governments have already made notable progress in linking their payment systems with Raast. This integration will help citizens pay fees, bills, and other dues digitally, while also allowing governments to transfer funds directly into digital accounts.
PM Shehbaz praised the coordination between federal and provincial authorities. He noted that such efforts will ensure the cashless economy benefits people in every region, from urban centers to rural areas.
Building the Digital Infrastructure
A critical part of the transition is the rollout of digital infrastructure. The Capital Development Authority has already provided right-of-way for fiber optic connectivity. Negotiations with Pakistan Railways and the National Highway Authority are ongoing to expand this network further.
The prime minister emphasized that reliable internet connectivity is essential for a cashless economy. He called for fast-tracking fiber projects to ensure that the backbone of the digital system is in place.
Leadership and Participation
The meeting was attended by several key ministers and officials. Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Adviser to the Prime Minister Dr Tauqir Shah, and Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani were among those present.
The presence of a diverse team reflected the government’s whole-of-system approach to the cashless transition. Each ministry has a role in building trust, ensuring security, and spreading awareness about digital payments.
Green Pakistan Drive
Alongside economic reforms, PM Shehbaz also spoke about Pakistan’s commitment to environmental sustainability. Launching the Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign, he urged citizens to unite in the mission to expand forest cover and improve soil fertility under the Green Pakistan Programme.
In his message, the prime minister called tree plantation not just a symbolic gesture but a national duty. He stressed that planting trees would create a healthier environment, combat climate change, and protect future generations from ecological disasters.
Call for National Participation
PM Shehbaz appealed to federal and provincial governments, community leaders, and citizens of all ages to actively take part in the plantation campaign. He noted that this year’s drive would be observed under different themes to highlight the role of various social segments.
“Let us renew our commitment to plant trees,” he said, “because a green, healthy, clean, and prosperous Pakistan is our shared destiny.”
Looking Ahead
With a dual focus on digital transformation and environmental protection, the government is signaling a broader vision for Pakistan’s future. The push for a cashless economy aims to modernize financial systems and reduce reliance on cash. At the same time, nationwide tree plantation efforts show a commitment to sustainability.
PM Shehbaz made it clear that both goals go hand in hand. A digitally connected, eco-friendly Pakistan, he said, will not only strengthen governance but also improve the quality of life for all citizens.
Follow us on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook,, X and TikTok for latest updates
