Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja announced Friday that Starlink has received temporary registration in Pakistan.
In a statement, the minister revealed that Starlink has been issued a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) with the consensus of all security and regulatory bodies. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will oversee the company’s compliance with fee payments and other licensing requirements.
Shaza Fatima emphasized that this approval is a milestone in Pakistan’s journey towards digital transformation. “Under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, we are making significant strides in modernizing our internet infrastructure,” she said. “Starlink’s registration is a major step forward in bridging the digital divide, especially in underserved and remote areas.”
The minister highlighted the government’s “whole-of-government” approach, which involved close collaboration with cybercrime and security agencies, the PTA, and the Space Authority. This coordinated effort ensured a smooth registration process for Starlink.
Read: Starlink Registration Launches in Pakistan, PTA Announces
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk expressed his eagerness to launch Starlink in Pakistan earlier. In a conversation on X (formerly Twitter), Musk responded to a Pakistani user’s request by stating that he was awaiting government approval. Starlink, a satellite-based internet service by SpaceX, aims to provide high-speed internet connectivity globally, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure.
The introduction of Starlink in Pakistan is expected to revolutionize internet access, especially in remote regions. By leveraging satellite technology, the service will help bridge the digital divide, providing opportunities for education, business, and communication in underserved areas.
