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ISLAMABAD: Senator Palwasha Khan chaired a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology to deliberate on the licensing of satellite internet services, with a focus on Starlink’s ventures in Pakistan.
The meeting was opened by Chairman PTA, who said that Starlink had submitted a registration application on February 24, 2022. Additionally, the matter was then referred to the Ministry of Interior for clearance regarding security. The newly formed regulatory authority, PASRB, will now decide whether or not to grant the license.
Elon Musk has been actively campaigning against Pakistan on social media, but Senator Palwasha Khan is quite concerned that he is joining India’s narrative against Pakistan. She said, ‘It seems Elon Musk has partnered with India to propagate false allegations against Pakistan.’
Elon Musk should publicly apologize for his anti-Pakistani comments before Starlink can get a license, according to Senator Afnan Ullah Khan. “The PTA must consider Musk’s campaign against Pakistan before issuing a license. He should apologize for his statements before any further steps are taken,” he demanded
The Special Secretary IT recognized that offering satellite internet services in Pakistan is a delicate issue. He pointed out that Musk’s recent tweets suggesting he is waiting for approval are not accurate because he hasn’t communicated directly with the Pakistani officials.
The committee also discussed issues with the National Space Policy 2023’s new regulatory structure, raising doubts about the PTA’s involvement in the transfer of funds to the new body. Former IT Minister Senator Anusha Rahman questioned whether the caretaker government has the legal power to implement those measures.
Finally, in order to settle all outstanding matters pertaining to satellite internet licensing, including Starlink’s application, the committee requested comprehensive briefings from the Ministry of IT and PTA.
