Federal Minister for IT and Telecom Shaza Fatima has called on the Finance Minister to hold a meeting of the Auction Advisory Committee. This step is needed to push forward with the long-delayed 5G spectrum auction.
In her remarks to reporters, Shaza Fatima explained that the IT Ministry has officially asked for a meeting. She highlighted that since the federal budget has been finalized, there is no reason to delay any longer. “The Finance Minister is showing interest in the 5G auction,” she said, expressing hope that the Advisory Committee will meet soon.
She also shared that an international consultant has finished a high-quality report on the auction. The report is ready for review by the Committee. The group will analyze it before making a final call.
Shaza Fatima also pointed out that the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) still needs to decide on the proposed merger of two telecom firms. She said the CCP is an independent body and its decision is pending. The Advisory Committee has already sent the matter to the CCP for review.
She added that the delay in scheduling the Committee meeting is partly due to ongoing court cases. Still, she stressed that the auction will only move forward after the Committee gathers all reports and legal opinions.
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