Pakistan has granted temporary permission to Elon Musk’s satellite-based internet provider, Starlink, to offer its services in the country. The announcement was made on Friday, with Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirming the decision.
The temporary registration follows the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Shaza stated that Starlink had been issued a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) with the consensus of all security and regulatory agencies. She described the move as a step towards the formal launch of satellite internet services in Pakistan.
“Starlink has been issued a temporary NOC with the consensus of all security and regulatory agencies,” Shaza said.
She added that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) would ensure the company complies with fee payments and other licensing requirements.
The minister highlighted that the decision reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing digital connectivity. “Under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, Pakistan is making significant strides towards digital transformation,” she said.
“The prime minister had directed that the internet system in Pakistan should be improved. Modern solutions like satellite internet will improve connectivity in the country.”
Shaza also emphasised the collaborative effort behind Starlink’s registration, stating that the process involved consultation with the Cybercrime Agency, security agencies, PTA, and the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board.
In January, Elon Musk had noted that Starlink had applied to launch internet services in Pakistan and was awaiting government approval. With the temporary registration now granted, the country moves closer to introducing satellite-based internet solutions.
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