Microsoft submits proposals for IT development
KARACHI: Global software giant, Microsoft, has presented proposals to the Ministry of IT and Telecom for the development of IT industry and easy access to computer throughout the country.
“We have identified six key areas in our proposals which have 32 initiatives. Now we are waiting for their (ministry) response,” said Jawwad Rehman, Country Manager Microsoft Corporation in a chat with The News on Saturday.
“The response from the authorities has been positive in past so we expect the same this time too.”
He said the Microsoft had designed the proposals keeping in view the country’s IT needs. Provision of basic access to computer throughout the country tops all the proposals, he added.
“No country can make fast progress in IT (information technology) until its people have easy access to computer and basic IT education. We want to work on the same,” Rehman said.
Founded in 1975 Microsoft Corporation is the world leader in software, services and Internet technologies for personal and business computing.
“Our initiatives would also help local IT and particularly software industry. Microsoft wants to see Pakistan as emerging software industry in the region,” Rehman said but didn’t elaborate on Microsoft’s suggested role in the growth of country’s IT industry.
“It would be too early to disclose our plan. As soon as we receive go-ahead from the government we will make it public,” he said.
Microsoft opened its Middle East office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with five employees in 1991. Today, Microsoft Middle East is headquartered in Dubai with oversees operations in UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Yemen, Lebanon, Jordan, Cyprus, Malta, Egypt and Pakistan.
Microsoft country manager sees piracy as the only threat, which prevents its company from committing more investment in Pakistan. “We want to invest millions and millions in Pakistan. But it can’t happen until I get due regard for my products here,” he said.
Source: The News
Date:11/16/2003
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