Pakistan marked a significant milestone in its journey toward technological independence with the launch of its first locally manufactured ventilator.
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, unveiled the ventilator during a ceremony, hailing it as a transformative step for the country’s innovation landscape.
This achievement, developed by a private firm under the Uraan Pakistan initiative, underscores the nation’s commitment to fostering homegrown technology. Iqbal commended the company’s efforts, referring to it as a “trailblazer for Uraan Pakistan” and urging for similar innovations to position Pakistan as a global competitor.
Acknowledging challenges to Pakistan’s global reputation, Iqbal stressed the need for collective action to reshape the country’s future, particularly as it approaches its centenary in 2047. He highlighted the potential of emerging technologies under the Fourth Industrial Revolution, expressing confidence in Pakistan’s ability to outpace regional competitors within the next two decades.
Iqbal also called for consistent policies and long-term reforms, drawing inspiration from nations like Japan and South Korea. He set a bold target of increasing exports from $30 billion to $100 billion within the next decade, emphasizing the crucial role of the private sector in driving growth, especially in agriculture and industry.