The Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Hafeezur Rehman, informed the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology that Elon Musk’s company, Starlink, has yet to receive security clearance from the Ministry of Interior to launch its services in Pakistan. Rehman stated that the PTA has communicated its concerns to Starlink, and the company has agreed to comply with the government’s policies.
During the committee meeting, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, Rehman highlighted that Pakistan’s National Space Policy was formulated in 2023, with rules established in 2024. Following this, the Pakistan Space Regulatory Board was created, operating under the National Command Authority. He explained that the regulatory body was established to provide commercial protection to SUPARCO, Pakistan’s space agency.
Rehman outlined the process for any satellite service provider seeking to operate in Pakistan, stating that companies must first register with the Electronic Engineering Certification Pakistan (EECP), then with the regulatory board, and finally obtain a license from the PTA. He revealed that Starlink applied for a license in February 2022, but its application remains pending due to the lack of security clearance from the Ministry of Interior.
Senator Anusha Rehman questioned how the policy was formulated during the caretaker government’s tenure. The PTA chairman clarified that Starlink’s clearance is still under review by the Ministry of Interior. He added that Starlink’s services would support businesses in remote areas, and once the company registers with the new regulatory board, the PTA will issue the necessary license.
Senator Dr. Afnanullah Khan raised concerns about Elon Musk’s past social media campaigns against Pakistan, accusing Pakistanis of wrongdoing. He emphasized that Musk’s behavior should be taken into account when making decisions regarding Starlink’s operations in the country. Senator Palwasha Khan echoed these sentiments, stating that Musk’s anti-Pakistan stance has tarnished the country’s global reputation.
Senator Anusha Rehman also pointed out the challenges Pakistan faces with internet shutdowns and questioned the wisdom of introducing a satellite service under the control of someone with Musk’s aggressive demeanor. She asked how issues such as unethical content or other concerns would be managed. The PTA chairman assured the committee that the regulatory body would address all such matters before issuing any licenses.
Rehman further explained that Starlink’s system would not operate directly through satellites but would function via ground gateways. The PTA has already communicated its reservations to Starlink, and the company has agreed to align with the government’s policies. The committee decided to summon SUPARCO and the regulatory authority for further discussions in its next meeting.
