ISLAMABAD, Dec 26: The country’s telecommunication sector attracted $1.8 billion Foreign Direct Investment during 2006-7, which was 35.6 per cent of the total FDI.

This was stated by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority Chairman Major-General (rtd) Shahzada Alam Malik on Wednesday at a briefing during a visit by caretaker Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Dr Abdullah Riar to the PTA headquarters.

Mr Malik said the number of cell phone users in the country had reached 75 million and the usage had increased manifold over recent years.

He said the overall tele-density of the country was a little over 50pc, while the density of mobile phone users was 47.4 per cent.

While appreciating the growth in the sector, the caretaker minister said it had made decisive contribution to the national economy.

He termed the PTA a model institution for other government organisations to follow.

He emphasised that there was a need to supplement the telecom revolution with broadband revolution.

“Access to information will not only enhance productivity in every sphere of life but also contribute towards the overall wellbeing of the common man,” Dr Riar said.