Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari emphasized the need for Karachi to play a larger role in Pakistan’s defence production sector, highlighting the increasing international demand for domestically manufactured military equipment. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of Karachi’s Shahrah-e-Bhutto on Friday, the former foreign minister noted that the demand for Pakistan’s defence products surged significantly following the country’s victory over India in the May 2025 conflict.
He pointed out that numerous countries have expressed interest in acquiring Pakistani defence hardware, which has gained preference globally due to its proven effectiveness in battle. “We want Karachi to contribute to the Made in Pakistan defence production as well,” Bilawal stated, underlining the city’s potential in this strategic industry.
The four-day war between the nuclear-armed neighbors began on May 7 last year after India launched an unprovoked attack on Pakistan, triggered by an assault on tourists in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. In response, Pakistan successfully downed eight Indian fighter jets, including French-made Rafale aircraft, along with numerous drones.
Following Islamabad’s military achievements, countries such as Iran, Bangladesh, and Libya reportedly showed interest in purchasing Pakistan’s defence equipment. In January, Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat Haraj confirmed ongoing negotiations with several nations regarding potential deals for JF-17 Thunder fighter jets.
Bilawal also highlighted that Pakistan’s victory in the May 2025 war enhanced its global standing, positioning Islamabad as a crucial mediator between the United States and Iran in resolving their disputes.
Meanwhile, the PPP leader expressed concern over the economic impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict, noting that the burden is falling heavily on impoverished citizens already struggling with rising electricity and gas costs. He stressed that peace in the region is essential to alleviate economic hardships and warned that continued hostilities could worsen the situation.
The Middle East war erupted on February 28 after coordinated strikes by the US and Israel on Iran. Tehran retaliated by targeting Israeli and US bases across the region and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, causing a sharp rise in global oil prices.
