On Tuesday, the federal cabinet, following a recommendation from the Revenue Division, approved a significant move to declare the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) infrastructure as critical under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016. This decision aims to bolster the protection of the FBR’s highly sensitive data against cyber threats such as hacking and unlawful interventions.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the initiative is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure the security and integrity of the FBR’s data systems, ensuring that confidential tax and financial information remains safeguarded from external threats. The move comes at a crucial time, emphasizing the importance of cybersecurity in the modern digital landscape.
This decision follows a notable incident two years ago, when the tax records of former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa’s family were leaked to the press, leading to accusations of the family amassing assets worth Rs12.7 billion during his tenure. The leak served as a wake-up call, highlighting the vulnerabilities in the protection of sensitive government data.
In addition to this cybersecurity measure, the cabinet, on the recommendation of the Aviation Division, approved the extension of temporary operating permits for Fly Dubai’s flights. The airline’s weekly flights between Lahore and Islamabad to Dubai, and vice versa, will continue from January 4, 2025, to February 3, 2025, helping maintain connectivity between Pakistan and the UAE.
The cabinet was also briefed by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs on the public sector’s imports and exports through the Gwadar Port, scheduled to begin in March 2024. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who chaired the meeting, directed that reports from all relevant ministries be incorporated into the briefing. He further emphasized that 60% of all public sector imports and exports should be routed through Gwadar Port, showcasing the government’s commitment to boosting the port’s strategic importance and facilitating trade through this key infrastructure.
In another major development, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication provided an update on the progress of implementing the e-Office system across federal ministries and divisions. The government is set to introduce this system on a large scale, with all communication between federal entities going paperless starting January 1, 2025. This transition to digital communication will streamline processes and reduce the use of physical paperwork, which will not only save time but also provide significant cost savings on stationery and fuel.
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The introduction of the e-Office system has already been implemented in 21 ministries and divisions, and it has led to a remarkable reduction in the processing time for summaries at the Prime Minister’s Office, now averaging just three days. This step forward is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance efficiency and reduce bureaucracy within federal institutions.
The cabinet also approved a proposal from the Cabinet Division for the purchase of refurbished Chromebooks for schools and colleges, granting an exemption under Section 21-A of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority Ordinance. Prime Minister Sharif has ordered a third-party audit of this purchase to ensure transparency and accountability.
Additionally, the cabinet endorsed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Pakistan’s Investment Board and China’s Shandong Ruyi Group for the establishment of textile parks. This partnership aims to bolster Pakistan’s textile industry by promoting investment and infrastructure development in the sector, contributing to economic growth and job creation.
In the realm of international relations, the cabinet approved the signing of an MoU between the Diplomatic Academy of Serbia and the Foreign Service Academy of Pakistan. This agreement is expected to foster greater cooperation and exchange of knowledge between the two countries’ foreign ministries.
The cabinet also reviewed recommendations from the Cabinet Committee on Private Hajj Operators Court Cases, which proposed that the current 46 private operators continue to manage Hajj arrangements for 2025. The committee also recommended formulating a new Hajj policy for the coming years. The cabinet approved these suggestions and instructed that all pending court cases related to private Hajj operators be resolved promptly.
Lastly, the federal cabinet validated decisions made during the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases meetings held on December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025, ensuring that legislative processes and administrative matters proceed smoothly.
Overall, the federal cabinet’s recent approvals reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to address pressing national issues, ranging from cybersecurity and trade to government efficiency and international cooperation. While the initiatives are positive steps toward reform and modernization, continued efforts will be necessary to ensure the effective implementation and long-term success of these measures.
