ISLAMABAD — Global digital operator VEON Ltd. and Pakistan-based Nutshell Group have announced a strategic partnership to launch THE GLOBAL CONNECT, an international platform aimed at promoting cross-border investment, digital transformation and long-term economic cooperation across emerging and frontier markets.

The agreement was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in Dubai on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit. The MoU brings together VEON, Nutshell Group and JazzWorld to collaborate on digital innovation, inclusive growth and investment facilitation, while strengthening public-private partnerships.

According to the partners, THE GLOBAL CONNECT is designed to convene policymakers, investors, corporate leaders and academic institutions to support economic integration and sustainable development.

The signing ceremony was attended by senior representatives from Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, as well as executives from VEON and Nutshell Group. Among those present were Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE Shafqat Ali Khan, VEON Founder and Chairman Augie K. Fabela II, VEON Global CEO Kaan Terzioglu, Nutshell Group Founder and Chairman Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, and JazzWorld CEO Aamir Hafeez Ibrahim.

Officials said the initiative aligns with broader efforts to enhance investor confidence and expand digital infrastructure in high-potential markets.

In separate remarks, representatives of VEON and Nutshell Group highlighted the role of digital platforms in expanding financial inclusion and improving economic participation. They said the new platform would provide structured engagement between global capital and emerging market opportunities, including Pakistan.

The inaugural meeting of THE GLOBAL CONNECT is scheduled to take place in Islamabad in May 2026. Organisers expect participation from leaders representing more than 25 countries.

Headquartered in Islamabad, the platform plans to establish a presence in several global economic centres, including Riyadh, Abu Dhabi, Tashkent, Astana, Cairo, Nairobi, Beijing, Hong Kong, Washington, New York, Toronto, Istanbul and London. The network aims to facilitate investment, trade and knowledge exchange across regions.

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The launch event also drew participation from business and industry leaders from various sectors, reflecting international interest in the initiative.

Organisers said THE GLOBAL CONNECT seeks to serve as a long-term bridge between Pakistan and global markets by promoting cooperation, innovation and sustainable economic growth.