Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Thursday called for cross-sector collaboration to achieve Pakistan’s economic goals, urging the judiciary, policymakers, and business leaders to adopt a unified vision.
Speaking at a commemorative event organized by the Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) for Youm-e-Takbeer, he reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining its defence capabilities, ensuring economic progress, and strengthening democratic values.
The event included prominent legal figures such as Wajid Gilani, President of IHCBA, Manzoor Ahmed Raza, General Secretary, Fazl-ur-Rehman Niazi, President of Lawyers Forum, and other legal professionals.
In his keynote, Ahsan Iqbal acknowledged the presence of women lawyers and noted their participation as a sign of societal engagement.
He highlighted the significance of Youm-e-Takbeer by recalling India’s nuclear tests on May 11 and 13, 1998, and Pakistan’s response with six nuclear detonations on May 28, 1998, in Chagai, which established Pakistan’s nuclear defence.
The minister paid tribute to former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan for initiating Pakistan’s nuclear program and to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for resisting international pressure to demonstrate the country’s nuclear capability.
Linking the spirit of May 28 to recent events, Ahsan Iqbal mentioned Pakistan Air Force’s response on May 7 and 10, 2025, when it downed six Indian aircraft, including three Rafale jets, after incursions by India.
He stressed the need for Pakistan to adapt to the global technological revolution, stating that innovation is critical for national progress.
Ahsan Iqbal detailed the government’s initiative, URAAN Pakistan, aimed at accelerating economic growth through technology, innovation, and sustainable development. Key projects include expanding digital infrastructure, investing in science and technology, empowering youth and women through skills development, and strengthening industrial growth to create jobs and boost exports.
He connected economic strength with national defence, citing recent military successes as examples of integrating advanced technology and tactical expertise.
The minister also recognized the legal community’s role in supporting democracy and institutional integrity, urging political parties to uphold democratic values for continuity.
Ahsan Iqbal called on all sectors—judiciary, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and citizens—to unite under the vision of a prosperous and technologically advanced Pakistan inspired by Youm-e-Takbeer.
