Karachi (Web Desk): The 12th edition of the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2024) officially commenced at the Expo Centre in Karachi on Tuesday.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif highlighted the importance of strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors to boost the effectiveness and scale of defence production and exports.
The minister emphasized that Pakistan offers vast opportunities for investment, joint ventures, and trade across multiple sectors, particularly in defence.
While acknowledging that Pakistani defence products are already exported to over 60 countries, he noted that the current export volume does not fully reflect the country’s potential in the global defence market.
Asif expressed confidence that this year’s IDEAS, which includes participation from startups, top engineering and tech universities, as well as international defence experts and manufacturers, would mark a significant step forward in the development of Pakistan's defence sector.
He mentioned that the event would serve as a platform to create a robust defence ecosystem, connecting academia, industry, and both public and private entities involved in defence production.
The defence minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment to attract investment in human capital and professionals within the defence industry.
Addressing broader security issues, Asif called for greater regional and global cooperation to address the complex challenges posed by today’s geostrategic landscape.
The minister stressed the responsible application of modern technology to tackle these challenges, underscoring Pakistan’s dedication to supporting international peace and stability.
Asif also reiterated that Pakistan’s foreign policy is guided by the principles of reciprocity, mutual interest, and adherence to international norms.
On the geostrategic transformation of South Asia, the Minister emphasized that cooperation among regional players is crucial for achieving lasting peace, security, and socio-economic development. He added that Pakistan advocates for constructive dialogue based on equality to resolve bilateral disputes and promote regional harmony.
IDEAS, the biennial event, is one of the largest defence exhibitions in South Asia and showcases a wide range of defence equipment, technologies, and services. It serves as a platform for international defence manufacturers, experts, and industry leaders to showcase innovations in military hardware and discuss advancements in defence technology.
IDEAS typically features exhibitions from both local and foreign defence companies, displaying products ranging from air, land, and naval systems to security and communication technologies.
In addition to the exhibitions, seminars and conferences are often held to discuss current security challenges, defence cooperation, and future trends in the defence sector.
The event is expected to attract defence officials, military representatives, and security experts from across the globe, and it plays a key role in enhancing defence collaboration and partnerships among participating nations.
The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) has identified defence production and exports as a top priority, reflecting Pakistan's strategic focus on advancing its defence capabilities.
