PM Shehbaz Sharif launches major robotics initiative with $20 million venture fund
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced the launch of the Spark and Elevate Programme for robotics and autonomous systems along with the creation of a $20 million Pakistan Venture Fund. The initiative aims to promote innovation, support technology startups, and encourage research in advanced robotics.
Speaking at the Indus RAS (Robotics and Autonomous Systems) Expo in Islamabad, the prime minister said Pakistan is committed to using modern technology to strengthen its national security, defence, and future economic growth. He said the country has made steady progress in developing local capabilities in autonomous systems and cybersecurity.
The event was attended by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal ministers, senior government officials, and other key participants from the technology and defence sectors.
The prime minister said Pakistan will continue investing in advanced technologies to improve its defence capabilities and protect its sovereignty. He added that the country’s armed forces successfully used autonomous systems and cybersecurity tools during Marka-e-Haq to help secure the nation’s borders.
Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted the progress made in local defence manufacturing. He said simulation systems are now being developed entirely in Pakistan, while more than 60 percent of the country’s drones are manufactured locally. He praised the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar, and Admiral Naveed Ashraf for strengthening the armed forces through technology and operational excellence.
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The prime minister stressed that technological progress should benefit everyone, not just large companies or major cities. He said farmers, small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and underserved communities should also gain from new technologies.
He also called for clear laws and an ethical framework to ensure the safe, responsible, and transparent development of robotics and autonomous systems across Pakistan.
The newly launched Spark and Elevate Programme will support research in robotics and autonomous technologies, encourage entrepreneurship, and create high-skilled job opportunities. The government hopes the programme will help transform research into practical solutions, reduce reliance on foreign technologies, and build a stronger technology sector.
Information Technology Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja also addressed the event, describing the Indus RAS Expo 2026 as Pakistan’s leading national exhibition for robotics and automation. She said robots are now being used in many sectors beyond factories and added that Pakistan aims to build expertise across the entire robotics and artificial intelligence value chain.
Before the event concluded, the prime minister toured the exhibition and received a detailed briefing on the latest robotics and automation projects. A documentary showcasing the achievements and goals of the Indus RAS Expo was also presented.
