Ahsan Iqbal Links Global Recognition With Economic and Tech Progress

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has said Pakistan has gained greater international recognition following what he described as the country's success in Marka-e-Haq, while stressing that lasting diplomatic and defence gains must be supported by a stronger economy.

Speaking at the launch of Quantum Valley Pakistan in Islamabad, the minister connected Pakistan's international standing with the country's broader economic and technological ambitions. He said national progress could not rely on achievements in a single area and argued that economic strength was essential for sustaining advances in diplomacy and defence.

Iqbal also referred to Pakistan's role in diplomatic efforts connected with the Iran-US ceasefire. He presented that engagement as part of Islamabad's wider contribution to regional diplomacy at a time when developments in the Middle East have placed greater attention on countries seeking to encourage dialogue and de-escalation.

The minister said the government's Uraan Pakistan initiative remained central to its economic development agenda. He linked the programme with efforts to improve Pakistan's growth prospects and said economic advancement would provide a stronger foundation for the country's wider strategic objectives.

A major focus of the event was the launch of Quantum Valley Pakistan, which Iqbal described as an initiative intended to expand opportunities for startups and high-technology businesses. The project is aimed at strengthening Pakistan's capacity in emerging technologies and creating an environment in which technology-focused companies and entrepreneurs can develop new ventures.

Iqbal also welcomed an agreement between Quantum Valley Pakistan and the Cambridge Innovation Center. He said the collaboration could create additional opportunities for technological development and help connect Pakistani innovation efforts with international expertise and networks. The initiative is expected to focus attention on the role of partnerships in developing a stronger technology ecosystem.

The minister said the launch represented the beginning of a new effort to equip Pakistani youth with skills required in modern and emerging technological fields. He emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for younger professionals as Pakistan seeks to expand high-value industries and increase participation in technology-driven economic activity.

The development places technology, startups and skills development alongside broader economic reform as areas the government sees as important for Pakistan's future growth. The next phase will depend on how Quantum Valley Pakistan translates its partnerships into practical opportunities for entrepreneurs, technology firms and young professionals, as well as how effectively the wider economic agenda supports investment and innovation.