Karachi Pakistan : Federal Minister for Planning and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal visited the Alsons Group in Karachi on January 6, 2025, where he inspected Pakistan’s first locally produced ventilator. On this occasion, he performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony to formally inaugurate the production line. The visit aimed to highlight the role of the private sector in advancing Pakistan’s industry and economy.
Addressing the event, Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal said, “I dedicate this milestone, the rise of Pakistan’s exports, to the Alsons Group. This success proves that Pakistan has no shortage of innovation and technological capabilities.” He praised the Alsons Group team, stating, “These ventilators are a beacon of hope for our economy. They demonstrate not only self-reliance in the medical field but also hold the potential to boost our exports.”
He remarked, “Some people have tarnished our identity, portraying us as corrupt, but our true identity is of a progressive, self-reliant, and innovative Pakistan. We must believe in our capabilities and present a positive image of Pakistan to the world.”
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal further stated, “Every successful country stands on four fundamental pillars: peace, policy continuity, political stability, and consistent reforms. These are the foundations on which we can transform our nation.” He added, “In the next 22 years, we will move further ahead and bridge the gap of the past 50 years. We will be among the most advanced nations globally.”
He highlighted, “We have entered the fourth industrial revolution. This is the age of technology, offering us an opportunity to capture international markets. However, our economy’s weakness lies in its inability to generate enough exports to cover the current account deficit.”
The minister emphasized, “We must take bold steps to achieve the $100 billion export target. This will require coordinated efforts from both the government and the private sector.” Speaking on the potential in agriculture and industry, he said, “There is immense capacity and untapped potential in these sectors. With the right strategy, we can unlock new avenues for growth.”
He pointed out, “Although we face high fuel and electricity costs, our abundant and affordable labor force positions us to become a low-cost producer.” He stressed, “‘Made in Pakistan’ must become a brand of choice, synonymous with quality and innovation.”
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal said, “Local products must align with international standards to strengthen our economy. This is the practical interpretation of Pakistan’s vision for economic flight.” He added, “If we can produce such a complex ventilator locally, imagine the vast potential our country holds. These ventilators are not just technological advancements but also essential tools of hope for critical care patients.”
He commented, “Today, Pakistan stands on an IMF ventilator, but I am confident that with the support of the private sector, we can overcome this challenge. By focusing on export-led growth, we can open new avenues of progress for our economy.”
At the end of the event, the federal minister congratulated the Alsons Group leadership and said, “The government will provide every possible support to the private sector to strengthen Pakistan’s industries and exports. This is our collective mission.”
