ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has called for greater cooperation with Google to promote a safe and peaceful digital environment in Pakistan, stressing that digital platforms must take the country’s unique circumstances into account. The minister made the remarks during a meeting with a Google delegation led by Senior Director David Wheeler in Islamabad. The two sides discussed digital security, the effective use of social media in countering terrorism and other related matters. Talal Chaudhry said Pakistan wanted to further strengthen cooperation and coordination with Google to ensure a secure digital environment. He noted that Pakistan’s geographical and security situation was different from that of other countries and said digital platforms would have to consider the country’s specific circumstances. The minister said terrorists were using social media to promote terrorism and spread fear, making active monitoring of social media platforms essential in view of Pakistan’s security situation. David Wheeler assured the minister that Google would continue cooperating with the Pakistani government to help create a safer digital environment in the country. The meeting came a day after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated Google’s office in Pakistan. Speaking on the occasion, the prime minister said Google could play an important role in the development of Pakistan’s youth and technology sector. He also emphasized the need to further expand cooperation between Pakistan and Google, saying the government would continue its efforts to promote digital technology and equip young people with modern skills.