Karachi, November 25, 2024: The closing ceremony of IDEAS 2024, held at the Expo Center, Karachi, marked the successful conclusion of one of the most significant events in Pakistan’s defence industry. The event highlighted Pakistan’s achievement in showcasing its technological advancements in land, sea, and air defence equipment on the global stage, demonstrating the country’s self-sufficiency in various defence sectors.
Pakistan’s Self-Sufficiency in Defence Technology
Lt General (R) Muhammad Chiragh Haider HI(M), Secretary of Defence Production at the Ministry of Defence Production, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the importance of arms in facilitating peace. He stated, “Our country has showcased one of the best and technologically advanced land, sea and air defence equipment in the global market, thus proudly achieving self-sufficiency in any field related to the defence sector.” He further highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to being a peaceful and harmonious nation in the competitive global landscape.
Key Figures at the Event
The event also featured the presence of key figures such as Major General Asad Nawaz Khan HI(M), Director General of the Defence Export Promotion Organization (DEPO), Brigadier Ali Adil, Director Coordination at DEPO, Commodore Aitazaz Khalid SI(M), Director (Media) at DEPO, and Mr. Tanvir Abbas Abdullah, COO of Badar Expo Solutions.
Objectives of IDEAS 2024
General Haider explained that the primary objective of IDEAS 2024 was not only to showcase Pakistan’s defence products but also to demonstrate the organizational capabilities required to plan and execute an international mega event. The exhibition served as an excellent platform for conveying Pakistan’s viewpoints on regional security issues while offering a unique opportunity for both public and private sector defence industries to interact directly with global defence players. This interaction helps reinforce Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in the field of defence diplomacy.
International Participation and Success
The event’s success was underlined by its international significance. Over 350 foreign defence delegations from 52 countries participated in the exhibition, emphasizing the event’s global importance. More than 555 exhibitors, including 334 international participants, displayed their defence products, making IDEAS 2024 a remarkable showcase of technological innovation. Additionally, over 82 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed during the event, further cementing Pakistan’s position in the global defence market.
Pakistan’s Organizational Skills and Global Image
Lt General Haider emphasized that the successful organization of IDEAS 2024, despite the prevalent challenges, showcased Pakistan’s organizational skills and its ability to hold grand events in a highly organized manner. He remarked that the event communicated to the world that Pakistan is a peaceful and progressive nation, willing to coexist with the international community.
Gratitude to Participants and International Partners
Major General Asad Nawaz Khan, DG of DEPO, also addressed the media, expressing his gratitude to the foreign and domestic guests, exhibitors, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), trade visitors, and diplomats for their participation in making IDEAS 2024 a grand success. He noted, “The overwhelming response by our international partners clearly validates our slogan ‘Arms for Peace’ and reflects our principled stance that a more balanced arms equation is key to regional and global peace.”
The Future of IDEAS and Pakistan’s Defence Industry
General Khan also acknowledged Badar Expo Solutions for its excellent organization of the event, and emphasized the lasting impact of the exhibition. He mentioned that while the deals showcased during the event would take time to materialize, Pakistan’s high-quality defence products, which are cost-competitive and on par with global standards, have a promising future in international markets.
Conclusion
IDEAS 2024 successfully highlighted Pakistan’s technological advancements and self-sufficiency in the defence sector, reinforcing its commitment to peace and regional stability. The event showcased Pakistan’s organizational capabilities, drawing international attention and fostering valuable partnerships. With significant participation from global delegations and exhibitors, IDEAS 2024 cemented Pakistan’s position as a competitive force in the global defence market. Moving forward, Pakistan’s growing defence industry holds great potential for continued success and expanded international collaboration.
TechxPakistan contributed significantly to IDEAS 2024’s success by utilizing advanced technology to streamline operations, enhance coordination, and ensure smooth communication. Their expertise helped elevate the event’s global impact, showcasing Pakistan’s strength in organizing large-scale, tech-driven international events.
