Islamabad: Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, inaugurated two significant projects under the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) focused on Emerging Technologies. The projects, named Common Criteria Pakistan and Quantum Communication, aim to bolster Pakistan’s capabilities in critical technology sectors.

According to Press Information Department, the inauguration ceremony was attended by senior officials from multiple ministries, including Defense, IT and Telecom, and Planning. Minister Iqbal praised the development teams for their efforts and highlighted the self-sustaining models expected to support these projects long-term. He recounted technological milestones such as the establishment of national centers for artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, reflecting on the technological evolution since the inception of Pakistan’s first IT policy under Vision 2010.

The Minister also addressed future challenges and opportunities for Pakistan, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive 23-year strategy to transform the economy significantly. By leveraging peace, stability, and continuous policy reforms, he believes Pakistan can match the developmental pace of other nations. Minister Iqbal’s reflections included past efforts to overcome energy shortages, counterterrorism successes, and the progression of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, pointing out the setbacks from diminished foreign expertise due to adverse local reactions.