HOUSTON: Ahsan Iqbal, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, highlighted the country’s strategic transformation and economic ambitions during his address at Rice University. He underscored the successful execution of Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos as a demonstration of Pakistan’s strategic clarity and national resilience, which he believes lays a stable foundation for investment and sustainable growth.

According to Press Information Department, Iqbal described Pakistan’s diplomatic advancements as a re-emergence on the global stage as a credible actor favoring dialogue and cooperation. He stressed the importance of sustained reforms for capitalizing on the strategic opportunities, drawing parallels with the development experiences of other nations. The Minister also introduced URAAN Pakistan as a mission to transition the economy towards productivity and innovation, with the goal of reaching a $1 trillion economy by 2035.

In a subsequent event with the Pakistani American community in Houston, Iqbal commemorated the 150th birth anniversary of the nation’s founding fathers, reaffirming the government’s commitment to their vision through initiatives like URAAN Pakistan. The Minister also discussed potential healthcare collaborations with the Ibn Sina Foundation to enhance human development outcomes.