Pakistan pursuing economic growth under ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative: Ahsan Iqbal

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday outlined the government’s vision for economic development under the ‘Uraan Pakistan’ initiative while reiterating the importance of regional trade connectivity and technological advancement in national defense.

Speaking at a seminar, the minister identified the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a key driver for enhancing regional trade. “Modernising our trade infrastructure is essential for economic progress,” Iqbal said, adding that Pakistan aims to achieve USD60 billion in exports by 2030 through comprehensive trade policy reforms.

The minister revealed plans to train two million youth in IT skills to boost technology exports, stating: “We’re transforming our geographical location into economic strength through mutual cooperation.”

Defense and nuclear legacy

Iqbal paid tribute to former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and scientist Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan for laying the foundations of Pakistan’s nuclear program. He credited former PM Nawaz Sharif for conducting nuclear tests in 1998 despite international pressure.

Ahsan Iqbal calls for timely completion of stalled education projects

Referring to recent tensions with India, the minister claimed Pakistan’s “effective response” on May 10 had forced the adversary to “seek America’s help.” He emphasised technology’s growing role in modern defense systems.

Institutional balance

Separately, the minister expressed concerns about judicial overreach, alleging that since 2017, “the judiciary has been dragged into political matters, leading to unfortunate decisions that the Supreme Court later had to correct itself.”

Iqbal welcomed the military establishment’s recent statements distancing itself from politics, saying: “When any state institution oversteps its mandate, it creates crises.” He stressed the need for all state pillars to maintain constitutional boundaries.

The minister concluded by linking economic strength to national security, asserting that “a robust economy is fundamental for strong defense in today’s technology-driven world.”