Google Opens First Office in Pakistan as PM Shehbaz Sharif Pushes Digital Transformation

ISLAMABAD, August 18, 2026 — Pakistan has taken a significant step toward strengthening its digital economy with the opening of Google’s first office in the country, as Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held talks with a senior Google delegation on digital transformation, artificial intelligence and youth skills development.

A nine-member Google delegation led by Wilson White, Vice President for Government Affairs and Public Policy, met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad. Natalie Baker, Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy, also attended.

The prime minister said Pakistan was moving rapidly toward the digitalisation of governance and the economy under the government’s “Digital Nation Pakistan” vision. He highlighted ongoing programmes to improve IT infrastructure and train young people in IT and artificial intelligence.

Shehbaz Sharif welcomed Google’s decision to establish a permanent office in Pakistan, saying the move would strengthen cooperation and create more opportunities for the country’s growing digital workforce.

Wilson White said Google’s local presence would deepen its long-term commitment to Pakistan and help create opportunities for young people and local businesses. He said the company was interested in expanding training programmes in AI, IT, gaming and other emerging technologies.

White also highlighted a Chromebook assembly line established by Google with local partners, saying Pakistan had strong potential to export locally assembled devices to regional markets.

The government sees Pakistan’s young population as a major opportunity for growth in the digital economy. Greater investment in technology skills could help expand employment, entrepreneurship and access to global markets.

The meeting concluded with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Wilson White, Natalie Baker and other dignitaries jointly unveiling a plaque to mark the opening of Google’s first office in Pakistan.