The 12th edition of the defense exhibition and seminar, IDEAS 2024, officially commenced on Tuesday at Karachi’s Expo Centre.
During the opening ceremony, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships to enhance the productivity and efficiency of defense exports.
He declared that Pakistan presents a wealth of opportunities for lucrative business, collaborative initiatives, and investments across various domains, including defense.
The minister remarked that Pakistani defense products are increasingly making a mark in the global market. He pointed out that while the country exports advanced defense technologies to over 60 nations, its current export figures do not truly reflect its potential.
Khawaja Asif highlighted that this year’s IDEAS event is set to play a vital role in advancing Pakistan’s military industry by bringing together startups, prominent engineering and technology institutions from Pakistan, and international defense specialists and manufacturers.
To promote engagement between the public and private sectors, alongside academia and industry, Khawaja Asif announced the establishment of a defense ecosystem within the IDEAS framework.
The Defence Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly climate to draw investment in human capital and industrial expertise.
In light of the geostrategic landscape, he pointed out that enhanced cooperation at both regional and international levels is essential to addressing the multitude of challenges stemming from the current security environment.
Khawaja Asif advocated for the ethical utilization of modern technology to address geo-strategic concerns and contribute to a safer, improved society. He asserted that Pakistan, as a responsible nation, has consistently pledged to aid in the promotion of global peace, stability, and order. He stressed that Pakistan’s bilateral and multilateral relationships are grounded in international standards, shared interests, and reciprocity.
The Minister underscored the need for regional cooperation and engagement to attain regional security, socio-economic development, and peace, especially considering the shifting geostrategic dynamics in South Asia.
He confirmed Pakistan’s commitment to resolving bilateral disputes and nurturing peace and harmony in the region through constructive dialogue based on equality. According to Khawaja Asif, Pakistan is devoted to working with its partners to ensure global peace and stability.
IDEAS 2024 is set to showcase a diverse array of defense equipment, weaponry, and vehicles, encompassing both modern and historical aspects. A substantial number of international defense experts are anticipated to attend the IDEAS 2024 trade expo. The Special Investment Facilitation Council has identified exports and defense production as crucial priorities.
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