Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at accelerating Pakistan’s technology sector, announcing that the country will focus on developing homegrown innovation instead of relying on imported technologies.
Addressing participants at the Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS) Expo, the prime minister launched the Spark and Elevate Programme to promote robotics and autonomous technologies. He also announced the establishment of a $20 million Pakistan Venture Fund to support technology startups, innovation, and research-driven projects.
The prime minister said these initiatives are designed to help transform research into commercially viable technologies while creating high-quality employment opportunities for skilled professionals across the country.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan is steadily strengthening its indigenous technological capabilities, particularly in robotics, autonomous systems, and defense innovation. He said the country is committed to building its own advanced technologies to drive long-term economic growth and self-reliance.
Highlighting recent progress in the defense sector, the prime minister noted that Pakistan now manufactures military simulators locally, while more than 60 percent of the drones used by the armed forces are produced within the country. He added that advancements in cybersecurity and emerging technologies are further enhancing the country’s defense capabilities.
Beyond defense, the prime minister stressed that technological innovation should contribute to broader economic development by improving agriculture, water management, climate resilience, and productivity for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and farmers. He also called for the development of a comprehensive legal and ethical framework to ensure the responsible use of robotics and autonomous systems.
Separately, Shehbaz Sharif welcomed S&P Global Ratings’ decision to upgrade Pakistan’s sovereign credit rating from B- to B, describing it as a positive reflection of the government’s economic reforms, fiscal discipline, and stabilization efforts. He said the improved rating is expected to strengthen investor confidence and create new opportunities for foreign investment in Pakistan.
