Karachi : Federal Minister for Petroleum – Senator Dr Musadik Malik, addressed the 6th Edition of the Future Summit, held at Movenpick Hotel in Karachi, on the 16th of February, 2023. Expressing his views on the theme for this year “Preparing for Disruption”, Dr Musadik Malik, acknowledged the presence and importance of disruptions, as essential determinants of progress for humanity. Citing scientific advances in Nano-technology, Information Technology, Bio-technology and Artificial Intelligence, the senator marvelled at the prospects of these technologies for the advancement of mankind.
The Senator however, cautioned the participants of the summit from failing to see the negative aspects of disruption. Lamenting the failure of globalisation, the Senator expressed his fears that disruptions brought about by scientific advances, while essential for progress, may end up sidelining and harming the global population on the peripheries. The Senator then further highlighted the sufferings of 5 billion people of the Global South, and pointed out the difference between the haves and haves-not.
Citing geopolitics as the reason for inequality in accessing advantages brought about by scientific progress, Dr Musadik Malik pointed out the unfair leverage given to some countries, leaving the rest to suffer. Speaking on this further, the Senator mentioned the rise of populism and politics of hatred as the unintended, lopsided consequences of the commercialization of disruptions. In particular, the Senator expressed his views on what this meant for Pakistan, keeping in mind the financial meltdowns suffered by the country, nearly every quarter.
Focusing on the impact of COVID, the lack of access to vaccines and the unfair impact of climate change for a country with zero carbon footprint, the Senator highlighted the sufferings that disruptions might bring. However, the Senator cautioned the audience from fearing the natural trajectory of progress and instead suggested the creation of essential organizational principles, in order to strengthen the country. In particular, the Senator stressed the importance of strengthening the economy, revamping the educational system, ending elite capture and providing equal opportunities to all, in order to ensure that everyone reaped the benefits of future disruptions.
After concluding his address, the Senator then presented souvenirs to the other speakers at the event. These were James Michael – Olympic Coach and Fitness Trainer, Michael Kugelman – Director South Asia at the Wilson Centre and Sohail Aman – Former Air Chief Marshal of the Pakistan Air Force.
This event was attended by corporate leaders, politicians, civil servants and foreign dignitaries. Powered by the Nutshell Group and Engro Corp, this was the 6th Edition of the largest corporate event held in Pakistan.
