Islamabad (Web Desk): In a significant step towards advancing Pakistan’s digital ecosystem, Starlink, the satellite internet service from Elon Musk, has been granted a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to begin its operations in the country.
Information Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja shared the development on Friday, highlighting that the approval came after detailed consultations among various security and regulatory bodies, following the guidance of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
This temporary registration marks a key milestone in Pakistan's efforts to improve its internet infrastructure, with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) set to oversee Starlink’s adherence to the country's regulatory framework, including compliance with licensing requirements and fee payments.
The minister noted that this approval is an essential step towards modernising the country’s digital landscape, especially in underserved and remote areas.
The availability of satellite-based internet services is expected to play a transformative role in bridging the digital gap, providing high-speed connectivity to areas where traditional broadband has struggled to reach.
The successful facilitation of Starlink’s entry into the country was made possible through a unified approach, with key institutions such as the PTA, the Space Authority, and cybercrime agencies all contributing to the process.
Shaza expressed optimism that this would lay the foundation for the eventual official rollout of satellite internet services, opening the door to a new era of connectivity in Pakistan.
The minister said that the government has made significant strides to enhance national connectivity, and Starlink’s registration is seen as an important part of that broader vision.
With this development, Pakistan takes a crucial step toward modernising its internet infrastructure and addressing the challenges of digital connectivity in its more remote regions.