Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board Grants NOC to Starlink
Registration of Starlink Ensured on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Instructions – Shaza Fatima Khawaja
ISLAMABAD ( WEB NEWS )
Pakistan is set to enter the world of satellite internet as a significant development has been made regarding Starlink’s operations in the country. The Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board has issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Starlink.
According to details, Starlink has fulfilled all the requirements of the Space Regulatory Board, and after clearance from the Ministry of Interior, the NOC has been issued. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to grant Starlink a license within the next two weeks. Starlink had already applied for the license with PTA and submitted its technical and business plans. The company has completed three phases of registration in Pakistan, having already secured registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Pakistan Software Export Board.
Now, the final step is obtaining registration from the PTA. Once the license is issued by PTA, the company will be able to commence its services. PTA is currently reviewing the documents submitted by Starlink, ensuring that its services do not cause any disruptions to the existing network.
In 2023, Pakistan introduced a National Satellite Policy, and in 2024, Space Activities Rules were introduced to strengthen space communication in the country.
Minister of IT, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, commented on Starlink’s provisional registration, stating that on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Starlink’s registration was ensured. She emphasized that advanced solutions like satellite internet will improve connectivity in the country. PTA will oversee Starlink’s fee payments and other licensing requirements.
In her statement, she reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pakistan is progressing towards digital development. Approving satellite internet is a major step towards enhancing the country’s internet system and marks a milestone for Pakistan’s digital future. The Prime Minister had directed improvements in Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, and the approval of satellite internet will significantly boost connectivity.
The government adopted a whole-of-government approach, working in collaboration with all relevant institutions, including the Cyber Crime Agency, security agencies, PTA, and the Space Authority, which played a crucial role in the process. After consultations with all security and regulatory bodies, a provisional NOC was granted to Starlink. PTA will ensure Starlink’s compliance with fee payments and other licensing requirements. With Starlink’s arrival in Pakistan, the formal launch of satellite internet services will commence.