Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja Oversees Progress on Starlink Licensing and LEO Satellite Regulation

Islamabad: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications convened a meeting, led by Minister of State Shaza Fatima Khawaja, to assess the developments regarding Starlink’s licensing and the regulatory frameworks for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The meeting, held on January 6, 2025, aimed to expedite the processes necessary for establishing a comprehensive regulatory framework.

According to Press Information Department, the gathering brought together key figures, including Mr. Zarrar Hashim Khan, Secretary IT, Ministry of IT & Telecom; Mr. Azfar Manzoor, Special Secretary, Ministry of IT & Telecom; Mr. Amer Sarfaraz Ahmed, Chairman, Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board; Mr. Muhammad Yousuf Khan, Chairman, SUPARCO; Maj. Gen (R) Hafeez ur Rehman, Chairman, PTA; and Mr. Jehanzeb Rahim, Member (Telecom), Ministry of IT & Telecom. The meeting determined that the hiring of consultants to aid in developing regulations would be completed in the coming weeks.

Discussions during the meeting centered on accelerating the creation of regulations that would enhance connectivity and promote technological advancement. Minister Khawaja stressed the importance of aligning Pakistan’s policies with international standards to fully realize the potential of satellite technology for national development.