The much-anticipated IDEAS 2024 (International Defence Exhibition and Seminar) kicked off on Tuesday at Karachi’s Expo Center, attracting global attention. This 12th edition of the event highlights Pakistan’s advancements in defence technology. This aims to strengthen its role in the international defence market.
A Platform for Innovation and Collaboration
IDEAS 2024 showcases cutting-edge defence equipment, weapon systems, and vehicles, blending traditional and modern technologies. The exhibition also provides a unique platform for collaboration among defence experts, manufacturers, and industry leaders from across the globe.
Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, speaking at the inaugural ceremony, emphasized the importance of integrating the public and private sectors to boost Pakistan’s defence production and exports. He noted that while Pakistan exports high-tech defence products to over 60 countries, the export volume still falls short of its potential.
Focus on Start-Ups and Academia
This year’s event includes participation from Pakistani start-ups and leading engineering and technology universities. Khawaja Asif highlighted the launch of a defence ecosystem through IDEAS, fostering connectivity among academia, industry, and public-private sectors.
The minister expressed the government’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that supports investment in human capital and defence professionals. Such efforts aim to position Pakistan as a competitive player in the global defence industry.
Promoting Peace and Stability
Pakistan’s commitment to international peace and stability remains central to its defence policies. Khawaja Asif reiterated Pakistan’s stance as a responsible state, advocating meaningful dialogue based on equality to address bilateral issues and foster regional harmony.
In the context of South Asia’s geostrategic landscape, he stressed the need for cooperation and active engagement among regional players. This approach, he explained, is essential for achieving peace, security, and socio-economic development in the region.
Read: PM Shehbaz Urges Peace Amid PTI’s Planned Islamabad March
Opportunities for Investment
Khawaja Asif emphasized the immense potential for profitable investments and joint ventures in Pakistan’s defence sector. He encouraged international stakeholders to explore opportunities across all sectors, particularly in defence production.
By leveraging platforms like IDEAS 2024, Pakistan aims to attract global partnerships while showcasing its innovative defence products and expertise.
A Vision for Regional and Global Impact
The minister highlighted Pakistan’s guiding principles of reciprocity, mutual interest, and adherence to international norms in its bilateral and multilateral relations. These principles, he said, underline Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to global peace and stability.
IDEAS 2024 serves not only as a showcase of Pakistan’s defence capabilities but also as a symbol of its dedication to fostering innovation, collaboration, and international engagement. As global defence experts and industry leaders gather in Karachi, the event marks a significant step forward in Pakistan’s efforts to build a robust and competitive defence industry.
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