Starlink was given a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to operate in Pakistan, says the Ministry of Information Technology.
Starlink is a satellite internet constellation operated by Starlink Services, LLC, an international telecommunications provider owned by a subsidiary of an American aerospace company on X. Services operates in over 100 countries and territories. Tech billionaire Elon Musk owns the company.
Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority (PSARA) issued an NOC after clearance from the Ministry of IT. The NOC claims Starlink has met all regulatory requirements. Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to issue licenses to Starlink within the next two weeks. Starlink has already submitted its application for a license to the PTA.
Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khwaja confirmed that Starlink has been given the temporary certificate in a statement issued by the Ministry of Information and Technology.
“Starlink has been issued a temporary NOC with the consensus of all security and regulatory agencies,” Fatima was quoted as saying. “Starlink’s arrival in Pakistan will mark the formal launch of satellite internet services”.
The minister said that registering Starlink was “a big step” to improve the country’s internet services and IT infrastructure in line with the PM’s instructions.
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“The Prime Minister had directed that the internet system in Pakistan should be improved,” Fatima said. “Modern solutions like satellite internet will improve connectivity in the country.” Adding that “The prime minister has directed comprehensive reforms to enhance Pakistan’s internet infrastructure, and Starlink’s registration is a major step forward in this journey.”
She added that the registration of Starlink was the whole of the government’s approach. IT Ministry had consulted with the Cybercrime agency, security agencies, PTA and Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Authority.
“PTA will complete Starlink’s fee payment and other licensing requirements,” Fatima was quoted as saying.