Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the launch of the Spark and Elevate Programme focused on robotics and autonomous systems, alongside the establishment of a $20 million Pakistan Venture Fund. The announcement was made during the Indus RAS (Robotics and Autonomous Systems) Expo held in Islamabad on Wednesday.
In his address, the prime minister emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to harnessing advanced technologies to reinforce national sovereignty and defence capabilities. He highlighted the country’s significant progress in developing indigenous defence and security technologies, particularly in the fields of autonomous systems and cybersecurity.
The event was attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal ministers, and senior officials. PM Shehbaz Sharif noted that Pakistan would persist in utilizing cutting-edge technologies to strengthen its defence and protect its sovereignty. He pointed out that the armed forces had effectively employed advanced autonomous systems and cybersecurity measures to secure the nation’s borders during the Marka-e-Haq operation.
Further, the prime minister underscored Pakistan’s achievements in local defence manufacturing, mentioning that simulation systems are now fully produced domestically, and over 60 percent of drones are manufactured within the country. He also commended the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar, and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf for their relentless efforts, praising the armed forces for their operational excellence, technological advancements, and steadfast commitment to national defence.
Shehbaz Sharif stressed that the technological revolution should extend beyond advanced economies, multinational corporations, and major urban centers to benefit farmers, small enterprises, women entrepreneurs, and vulnerable groups. He called for clear legislation and an ethical framework to ensure the responsible and transparent development of autonomous technologies.
To foster innovation, the prime minister introduced the Spark and Elevate Programme, designed to support world-class research in robotics and autonomous systems, encourage entrepreneurship, and generate high-skilled jobs. He expressed confidence that Pakistan would convert research into practical technological solutions, reduce reliance on foreign technology, and build a prosperous future through innovation and dedication.
Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja also spoke at the event, describing the Indus RAS Expo 2026 as Pakistan’s premier national platform for robotics and automation. She highlighted that robotics applications have expanded beyond manufacturing to various sectors, with Pakistan aiming to develop comprehensive ownership across the robotics and artificial intelligence value chain.
Earlier in the event, the prime minister was briefed on the exhibition, which included a documentary showcasing the Indus RAS Expo. This initiative marks a significant step in Pakistan’s journey toward technological self-reliance and defence modernization.
