National Assembly Updates on Cybercrime, Privatization, Exports, and Development Plans
NAEEM MEHBOOB:
Islamabad: The National Assembly was informed on Tuesday about ongoing reforms and key initiatives across cybersecurity, aviation, trade, and urban development.
Cybercrime and NCCIA Reforms: Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said steps are being taken to strengthen the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), including appointing top officers and enhancing the agency’s capacity. Last year, the NCCIA received over 150,000 complaints, with more than 81,000 related to financial crimes, resulting in 1,095 arrests. Cellular companies have also been directed to improve SIM issuance security features.
Environmental and Urban Development Updates: Talal Chaudhry reported improvements in Islamabad’s air quality and highlighted measures like vehicle emission certifications. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to removing encroachments and announced the upcoming Vision 2027, a two-year roadmap aimed at transforming the federal capital into a modern smart city, supported by a comprehensive survey of residential and commercial areas.
Privatization of PIA: Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani said Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has been privatized in a transparent process. He clarified that only core airline operations were privatized, while PIA-owned hotels remain outside the transaction. Kayani expressed confidence that privatization will improve service delivery and strengthen the airline’s finances.
Exports and Trade: Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan said interventions are underway to reach a target of $60 billion in exports. He noted improvements across manufacturing and agricultural sectors, with a surge in agri exports last year.
Legislative Activity: Several bills were presented in the National Assembly, including amendments related to the Export Development Fund, National Tariff Commission, Export-Import Bank of Pakistan, Pakistan Telecommunication, Life Insurance Nationalization, Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education, Islamabad Capital Territory Condominium, and Alternative Dispute Resolution. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar also introduced the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council Ordinance, 2025 and Transfer of Railways Amendment Ordinance, 2025.
