Pakistan’s Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication has denied the reports of Microsoft leaving the country. The denial comes against extensive media reports that Microsoft has closed its operations in the country after a 25-year presence.
Contrary to Islamabad’s claim, the company’s official spokesperson and its former country manager have now attested to the closure. The technology giant made it clear that it will serve Pakistani customers through partners and proximate offices, rather than from within Pakistan.
Pakistan Denies Closure Reports
On Saturday, July 5, the government of Pakistan labelled the reports of shutdown as “misleading” and “anti-Pakistan propaganda.” It said that Microsoft has “not closed any office in Pakistan.” The Ministry asserted that Microsoft never had a permanent office within the country. Rather, it had a liaison office for several years. Commercial and licensing businesses for Pakistan have been conducted from Ireland, consistent with Microsoft’s global organization.
The Ministry also asserted that staff changes were under Microsoft’s worldwide Workforce Optimisation Program. As per their news release, the engagement of Microsoft with Pakistan is “intact and ongoing.” Officials stressed they are in “constant contact” with Microsoft and other international tech firms. They maintained there’s no proof that it is reducing operations or withdrawing.
Microsoft Says Otherwise
In opposition to the official denial, Microsoft has asserted its withdrawal. A spokesperson for the company informed that Microsoft’s business model is now shifting to partner-based, operating in Pakistan from regional offices. This, according to the spokesperson, is already an established model in many other countries.
Jawwad Rehman, the ex-country manager who inaugurated Microsoft Pakistan in June of 2000, also verified the shutdown. In an emotional LinkedIn update, he referred to it as “the end of an era.” Rehman stated that the remaining staff were recently notified, ending Microsoft operations in the nation formally.
The inconsistency between the government’s assertion and Microsoft’s admission demonstrates a definite disconnect. While Pakistan stands up for its tech image, the firm already has moved on. The shutdown questions the environment for business and the true extent of foreign technology involvement in the country.
