Latest news with #PTCL
Business Recorder
30-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Interview with Syed Aamir Jafri –CEO, Eocean Pvt Ltd
'Digital solutions will outperform conventional methods in Pakistan' Syed Aamir Jafri is the CEO and co-founder of Eocean, a cloud communication company with over 11 years of leadership experience. Under his guidance, Eocean has delivered innovative communication solutions to global clients such as Google, Facebook, Unilever, British Council, and Visa. His expertise spans marketing communications, business development, and key account management, with a strong grasp of the evolving mobile advertising landscape and emerging technologies. He is also the co-founder of Kistpay, a visionary platform aimed at digitizing Pakistan and beyond by aggregating major players in finance, telecom, insurance, and mobile technology. A certified Chief Digital Officer from MIT, his mission is to empower businesses and consumers through cutting-edge cloud-based solutions. Following are the edited excerpts of a recent conversation BR Research had with him: BR Research: Congratulations on Eocean's recent global recognition by META. Can you walk us through idea generation for integrating WhatsApp Business Platform with PTCL's services came about? Syed Aamir Jafri: Thank you! The idea came from a very challenge — call centres were overwhelmed, and customers were expecting faster, simpler ways to connect. PTCL wanted to modernize its service experience, and we knew WhatsApp was the one platform nearly every Pakistani uses daily. From there, it was about reimagining what service could look like: no hold music, no IVRs — just a smooth, intuitive conversation on a familiar app. BRR: With the successful implementation of the WhatsApp Business Platform at PTCL, could you share some insights regarding the implementation process. What were the greatest challenges in designing and deploying such an advanced self-service system? SAJ: The tech stack was complex, but the real challenge was human-centered design. We didn't want it to feel like a bot — we wanted it to feel like service. Integrating with PTCL's legacy systems took some creative problem-solving, but we kept the focus on speed and ease-of-use. The real magic was in continuous testing and feedback loops. It wasn't a one-shot build — it evolved through usage. BRR:Earning global recognition from Meta is a significant achievement. What does this mean for Pakistan's position in the global digital landscape? SAJ: It's a proud moment — not just for the Eocean, but for the country. It proves we can build globally relevant solutions from Pakistan that solve real problems at scale. It also signals that the world is paying attention to our ecosystem, and that's a huge opportunity — for founders, investors, and policymakers alike. BRR:WhatsApp is a widely used app in Pakistan but turning it into a full-fledged customer service platform is a game-changer. How do you see the role of messaging apps evolving in enterprise communication? SAJ: They're the new storefront. It's no longer about apps or websites — it's about conversations. Messaging apps are where intent meets action: ask a question, pay a bill, raise a ticket — all in the same chat. And that's just the start. These platforms are becoming the operating systems of customer experience. BRR:What has been Eocean's growth strategy in Pakistan over the years, and how do you plan to manage or accelerate growth in the years to come? SAJ: We've focused on solving deep-rooted communication problems — not just adding channels but redesigning how businesses interact with customers. Our growth's been driven by trust, execution, and innovation. We've worked with the largest names in banking, healthcare, and telecom — from HBL to Aga Khan Hospital. Looking ahead, we're doubling down on AI, payments, and regional expansion across the GCC and South Asia. BRR:Eocean has worked with global giants like Google, Facebook, and Visa. What unique advantages does a Pakistani cloud communications company offer to international clients? SAJ: We know how to do more with less — and we build for scale from day one. Our solutions are cost-effective, adaptable, and deeply grounded in the realities of high-volume, low-margin markets. And we move fast — not just because we must, but because we know how. Our clients range from Pakistan's biggest enterprises to banks in the Maldives. BRR:Do you believe the success of this project can serve as a blueprint for other industries in Pakistan? If so, how? SAJ: No question. The core playbook — simplify access, automate intelligently, and meet users where they are — is sector-agnostic. Whether it's education, healthcare, or financial services, this model cuts cost and boosts customer satisfaction. It's replicable and scalable. BRR:Kistpay is another bold venture. Tell us how it ties into your broader vision for a digitally inclusive Pakistan. SAJ: Smartphones are the entry point to the digital economy — but affordability is a huge barrier. With Kistpay, we've financed thousands of devices already, and we aim to reach 25,000 more this year. The idea is simple: if you can make a small down payment, you should be able to own a device — and unlock everything from learning to lending. That's inclusion in action. BRR:In your view, what are the critical policy or infrastructure changes Pakistan needs to accelerate digitization across sectors? SAJ: We need to unlock access. That starts with cheaper smartphones and reliable broadband. Beyond that, interoperability across platforms and a more streamlined regulatory environment would really move the needle. Most importantly, the government needs to treat digital services as infrastructure — not luxury BRR:With AI, cloud, and conversational commerce converging, what's next for Eocean? Are there any upcoming innovations or partnerships you can share with us? SAJ: We are building products that go beyond messaging — into mobile advertising that links the digital world with offline outcomes, and chat journeys that include commerce, payments, and even financing. We are also working on voice bots in local languages, because real inclusion means reaching people in the language they think in. BRR:Looking back at your 11+ year journey leading Eocean, what would you say has been the most pivotal moment—and what lessons did it bring? SAJ: The pandemic was a turning point. In that chaos, businesses realized how vital communication really was — and we were there to help. It taught us that when your product is mission-critical, you earn trust fast. The lesson? Stay useful, stay adaptable, and stay close to the customer. BRR: What is next for Eocean in terms of innovation, and how do you plan to continue pushing the boundaries of digital transformation in the region? SAJ: Our north star is to make enterprise communication radically simpler. We are scaling our CPaaS platform into a full-stack engagement engine — with AI, payments, and actionable insights built in. We are also expanding regionally, with active clients across the GCC and South Asia. The future is conversational — and we are building for it. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
29-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
PTCL Group partners with NETS International
KARACHI: Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) Group, consisting of PTCL and Ufone 4G, has joined forces with NETS International to modernize its IT Core Routing Platforms by deploying a state-of-the-art Cisco IT Core Routing Solution. This strategic initiative underscores our unwavering commitment to delivering superior IT services by leveraging the latest advancements in network infrastructure. Jafar Khalid, GCTIO of PTCL and Ufone, emphasized the importance of this initiative: 'This modernization project reflects our relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. By deploying state-of-the-art Cisco routing solutions, we are enhancing our network's efficiency and ensuring a superior digital experience for our customers.' Jahangir Ahmad, MD of NETS International, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership: 'We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with PTCL and Ufone. This project is a major milestone, and we are confident that the new Cisco Core Routing Platform will redefine network performance and reliability.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
26-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
NA panel questions PTCL's property sale
A parliamentary committee directed Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) to provide specific clauses of its sale and purchase agreements that authorise the company to proceed with the sale of its properties and expressed dismay over the absence of the firm's CEO. "Where is the CEO of PTCL? How is PTCL selling properties worth billions of rupees?" The committee chairman termed the CEO's absence an insult to parliament. He stated, "We summon the PTCL CEO and his continuous absence is an affront to the committee. We will not take up PTCL's agenda unless the CEO is present. If he is in Islamabad, then he must be called." The National Assembly Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication met on Monday under the chairmanship of Syed Aminul Haq. PTCL officials informed the committee that the CEO was attending a meeting at the UAE embassy, to which the chairman responded that committee members had arrived from remote areas to attend the session and those who were unable to come were participating online. "Scheduling a meeting at the UAE embassy on the same day when this session was going to be held is not appropriate," he remarked. The chairman asked, "How is PTCL selling off properties worth billions of rupees?" The committee also summoned officials from the Ministry of Law for the next meeting. Furthermore, the committee instructed that in the next meeting, it must be ensured that the CEO of PTCL appears before the panel to respond to its queries. The committee reconstituted its sub-committee, to be convened by Gohar Ali Khan, with the same composition and terms of reference. Meanwhile, amid increasing data leak concerns, a new messaging application, branded as a local alternative to WhatsApp, is set for launch for government employees, which will be expanded in phases. It was revealed by an official of the National Information Technology Board (NITB) while briefing the NA standing committee. According to officials, Beep will support encrypted messaging, audio and video calls, and conference calling with over 100 participants, with an additional layer of security and data hosting within Pakistan. The committee was informed by Zarar Khan, Secretary of the Ministry of IT, that an assessment was under way while keeping in view the cybersecurity. "We are trying to address vulnerabilities and trying to ensure the launch by June 30," he added. The app would be rolled out across the country but in phases, the committee was informed. Haque said that unlike WhatsApp, Beep's servers would be located in Pakistan. "Its data centre will be in Pakistan, ensuring 100% safety and security." Moreover, the committee was informed that the security agencies had responded to a letter from the Ministry of Interior, stating that due to the prevailing security and law and order situation, internet services in Panjgur district would remain suspended for the next six months. The committee voiced concern over the three-year internet suspension in Panjgur, highlighting its impact on businesses and students. It decided to hold an in-camera session with the interior secretary for a detailed briefing on the law and order situation. Committee member Pullain Baloch informed the meeting that people of his constituency had to travel 15 to 20 kilometres to access internet services. He added that PTCL's internet coverage in the area was nearly non-existent. In light of that, the committee directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman to conduct a survey of internet coverage in the region and submit a detailed report. The NA committee reviewed the delayed Coding and DG Skills Programme, drawing sharp criticism from members. The chairman voiced frustration at the year-long delay, citing missed opportunities amid rapid AI advancements. Ignite, the implementing body, attributed the delay to updating the content for current tech trends. They reported training 4.6 million students across 19 batches in 15 top freelancing courses, with 28% female participation. A 2024 survey showed trainees generated $1.65 billion in revenue.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BioInvent Presents Additional CTCL Phase 2a Data for BI-1808 Monotherapy at EHA 2025
Data from the cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) cohort demonstrate promising clinical activity that correlates with strong immune activation One complete response (CR), three partial responses (PR), and four stable diseases (SD) achieved as of Feb 2025 in eight evaluable patients Study currently enrolling patients for signal-seeking. Dose optimization phase to follow LUND, SE / / May 14, 2025 / BioInvent International AB ("BioInvent") (Nasdaq Stockholm:BINV), a biotech company focused on the discovery and development of novel and first-in-class immune-modulatory antibodies for cancer immunotherapy, today announced that additional data from the ongoing Phase 2a dose expansion study of BI-1808 monotherapy in Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL) will be presented in a poster at the European Hematology Association (EHA) 2025 congress to take place June 12-15 in Milan, Italy. The submitted abstract data from the CTCL cohort include results from ten patients treated with BI-1808 with eight deemed evaluable. As of the cut-off date February 20, 2025, one patient had achieved a complete response (CR), three achieved partial response (PR), and four demonstrated stable disease (SD). The treatment was well tolerated with primarily mild to moderate adverse events with no grade 3 or higher events reported. Notably, immune activation was observed in the early weeks of treatment, specifically depletion of regulatory T cells and an influx of CD8+ T cells into the skin, suggesting that BI-1808 effectively stimulates the targeted response in CTCL. The upcoming poster presentation will include more detailed and recent data, including findings in patients with PTCL (Peripheral T-cell lymphoma). "We look forward to presenting these positive data at EHA, which illustrate BI-1808's potential as an immunomodulatory treatment for CTCL patients, said Martin Welschof, Chief Executive Officer of BioInvent. "The emerging clinical responses, along with immune activation reflect the meaningful biological activity of BI-1808 and support further development in hematologic malignancies and solid tumor settings. We believe that BI-1808 could become a novel treatment option for CTCL patients, where innovative approaches are urgently needed - a belief further supported by the recent Fast Track and Orphan Drug Designation granted by the FDA." Details of the presentation are below: Title: Robust Single Agent Activity of BI-1808, a Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 2 (TNFR2) Blocker/Depleter, in Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma (CTCL) PatientsSession Date and Time: June 13, 2025, 6:30-7:30 pm CESTSession Title: Poster Session 1Lead Author: Stefan K. Barta, University of Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USAAbstract Number: PF961 The poster will be posted to the Scientific Publications section of the company website after the e-poster disclosure ( on June 12 at 9:00 am CEST. The safety and preliminary efficacy of BI-1808 monotherapy are currently being evaluated in Part A of the ongoing Phase 2a (NCT04752826) study in patients with T-cell lymphomas, including CTCL. The trial is expected to enroll 20 patients at a signal-seeking dose, after which a dose optimization phase will be initiated. About BI-1808 The anti-TNFR2 antibody BI-1808 is part of BioInvent's tumor-associated regulatory T cells (Treg)-targeting program. TNFR2 is particularly upregulated on Tregs of the tumor microenvironment and has been shown to be important for tumor expansion and survival, representing a new and promising target for cancer immunotherapy. BI-1808 is a first-in-class drug candidate in clinical development for the treatment of solid tumors and blood cancer. BI-1808 has shown single agent activity and excellent tolerability in an ongoing Phase 2a study and signs of efficacy and favorable safety profile in combination with pembrolizumab in the ongoing Part B of the Phase 1/2a study (ASCO 2024). About BioInvent BioInvent International AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: BINV) is a clinical-stage biotech company that discovers and develops novel and first-in-class immuno-modulatory antibodies for cancer therapy, with currently five drug candidates in six ongoing clinical programs in Phase 1/2 trials for the treatment of hematological cancer and solid tumors. The Company's validated, proprietary F.I.R.S.T™ technology platform identifies both targets and the antibodies that bind to them, generating many promising new immune-modulatory candidates to fuel the Company's own clinical development pipeline and providing licensing and partnering opportunities. The Company generates revenues from research collaborations and license agreements with multiple top-tier pharmaceutical companies, as well as from producing antibodies for third parties in the Company's fully integrated manufacturing unit. More information is available at For further information, please contact: Cecilia Hofvander, VP Investor RelationsPhone: +46 (0)46 286 85 50Email: International AB (publ)Co. Reg. No.: 556537-7263Visiting address: Ideongatan 1Mailing address: 223 70 LUNDPhone: +46 (0)46 286 85 The press release contains statements about the future, consisting of subjective assumptions and forecasts for future scenarios. Predictions for the future only apply as the date they are made and are, by their very nature, in the same way as research and development work in the biotech segment, associated with risk and uncertainty. With this in mind, the actual outcome may deviate significantly from the scenarios described in this press release. This information is information that BioInvent International is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 2025-05-14 15:30 CEST. Attachments BioInvent Presents Additional CTCL Phase 2a Data for BI-1808 Monotherapy at EHA 2025 SOURCE: BioInvent International View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
BioInvent Presents Additional CTCL Phase 2a Data for BI-1808 Monotherapy at EHA 2025
Data from the cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL) cohort demonstrate promising clinical activity that correlates with strong immune activation One complete response (CR), three partial responses (PR), and four stable diseases (SD) achieved as of Feb 2025 in eight evaluable patients Study currently enrolling patients for signal-seeking. Dose optimization phase to follow LUND, SE / / May 14, 2025 / BioInvent International AB ("BioInvent") (Nasdaq Stockholm:BINV), a biotech company focused on the discovery and development of novel and first-in-class immune-modulatory antibodies for cancer immunotherapy, today announced that additional data from the ongoing Phase 2a dose expansion study of BI-1808 monotherapy in Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma (CTCL) will be presented in a poster at the European Hematology Association (EHA) 2025 congress to take place June 12-15 in Milan, Italy. The submitted abstract data from the CTCL cohort include results from ten patients treated with BI-1808 with eight deemed evaluable. As of the cut-off date February 20, 2025, one patient had achieved a complete response (CR), three achieved partial response (PR), and four demonstrated stable disease (SD). The treatment was well tolerated with primarily mild to moderate adverse events with no grade 3 or higher events reported. Notably, immune activation was observed in the early weeks of treatment, specifically depletion of regulatory T cells and an influx of CD8+ T cells into the skin, suggesting that BI-1808 effectively stimulates the targeted response in CTCL. The upcoming poster presentation will include more detailed and recent data, including findings in patients with PTCL (Peripheral T-cell lymphoma). "We look forward to presenting these positive data at EHA, which illustrate BI-1808's potential as an immunomodulatory treatment for CTCL patients, said Martin Welschof, Chief Executive Officer of BioInvent. "The emerging clinical responses, along with immune activation reflect the meaningful biological activity of BI-1808 and support further development in hematologic malignancies and solid tumor settings. We believe that BI-1808 could become a novel treatment option for CTCL patients, where innovative approaches are urgently needed - a belief further supported by the recent Fast Track and Orphan Drug Designation granted by the FDA." Details of the presentation are below: Title: Robust Single Agent Activity of BI-1808, a Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor 2 (TNFR2) Blocker/Depleter, in Cutaneous T Cell Lymphoma (CTCL) PatientsSession Date and Time: June 13, 2025, 6:30-7:30 pm CESTSession Title: Poster Session 1Lead Author: Stefan K. Barta, University of Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USAAbstract Number: PF961 The poster will be posted to the Scientific Publications section of the company website after the e-poster disclosure ( on June 12 at 9:00 am CEST. The safety and preliminary efficacy of BI-1808 monotherapy are currently being evaluated in Part A of the ongoing Phase 2a (NCT04752826) study in patients with T-cell lymphomas, including CTCL. The trial is expected to enroll 20 patients at a signal-seeking dose, after which a dose optimization phase will be initiated. About BI-1808 The anti-TNFR2 antibody BI-1808 is part of BioInvent's tumor-associated regulatory T cells (Treg)-targeting program. TNFR2 is particularly upregulated on Tregs of the tumor microenvironment and has been shown to be important for tumor expansion and survival, representing a new and promising target for cancer immunotherapy. BI-1808 is a first-in-class drug candidate in clinical development for the treatment of solid tumors and blood cancer. BI-1808 has shown single agent activity and excellent tolerability in an ongoing Phase 2a study and signs of efficacy and favorable safety profile in combination with pembrolizumab in the ongoing Part B of the Phase 1/2a study (ASCO 2024). About BioInvent BioInvent International AB (Nasdaq Stockholm: BINV) is a clinical-stage biotech company that discovers and develops novel and first-in-class immuno-modulatory antibodies for cancer therapy, with currently five drug candidates in six ongoing clinical programs in Phase 1/2 trials for the treatment of hematological cancer and solid tumors. The Company's validated, proprietary F.I.R.S.T™ technology platform identifies both targets and the antibodies that bind to them, generating many promising new immune-modulatory candidates to fuel the Company's own clinical development pipeline and providing licensing and partnering opportunities. The Company generates revenues from research collaborations and license agreements with multiple top-tier pharmaceutical companies, as well as from producing antibodies for third parties in the Company's fully integrated manufacturing unit. More information is available at For further information, please contact: Cecilia Hofvander, VP Investor RelationsPhone: +46 (0)46 286 85 50Email: International AB (publ)Co. Reg. No.: 556537-7263Visiting address: Ideongatan 1Mailing address: 223 70 LUNDPhone: +46 (0)46 286 85 The press release contains statements about the future, consisting of subjective assumptions and forecasts for future scenarios. Predictions for the future only apply as the date they are made and are, by their very nature, in the same way as research and development work in the biotech segment, associated with risk and uncertainty. With this in mind, the actual outcome may deviate significantly from the scenarios described in this press release. This information is information that BioInvent International is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 2025-05-14 15:30 CEST. Attachments BioInvent Presents Additional CTCL Phase 2a Data for BI-1808 Monotherapy at EHA 2025 SOURCE: BioInvent International View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Sign in to access your portfolio
