KARACHI: Defense Minister Khawaja Asif officially inaugurated the International Defense Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024 on Tuesday at the Expo Centre.
The biennial event is set to run from November 19 to 22, showcasing Pakistan’s growing defense industry while also attracting global defense leaders and international exhibitors.
Addressing the opening session, Asif highlighted that IDEAS 2024’s slogan, “Arms for Peace,” underscores Pakistan’s commitment to peace while continuing to strengthen its defense capabilities.
He emphasized that the defense sector, which is witnessing significant growth, offers immense potential for both public and private sector involvement in boosting local manufacturing and defense exports.
“The defense industry in Pakistan is booming, and through this exhibition, we aim to promote Pakistan as a regional gateway for defense production,” Asif remarked. He noted that enhanced defense exports will not only contribute to the nation’s security but also help strengthen the economy.
The defense minister welcomed over 350 high-level delegations from 55 countries, including key participants from the US, Russia, China, Turkey, Iran, Italy, the UK, and Azerbaijan. More than 560 exhibitors, including 333 international defense manufacturers, are displaying their products at the event, with Turkey and China having the largest presence. Iran and Italy are attending IDEAS for the first time.
Pakistan’s contribution to the exhibition includes showcasing indigenous defense systems like the Haider Main Battle Tank (MBT), Shahpar III drone, and advanced models of the Super Mushshak Aircraft.
A special feature of this year’s exhibition includes a dedicated pavilion for defense startups, organized by leading institutions such as the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Pakistan Navy Maritime Science and Technology Park (PMSTAP), and National Aerospace and Technology Park (NASTP).
Asif stressed that IDEAS 2024 is not just a defense exhibition but also a platform for strengthening regional peace through increased connectivity and collaboration among global defense entities. “Promoting connectivity is crucial for regional peace and socio-economic development,” he stated, adding that Pakistan remains committed to international peace, stability, and responsible defense technology use.
During his welcome address, Major General Asad Nawaz Khan HI(M), the Director General of the Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO), welcomed the domestic and international exhibitors, visitors, and delegations attending IDEAS 2024.
He praised the exhibition’s success in bringing together a diverse range of participants, including defence manufacturers, academia, and startups, creating a dynamic environment for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
IDEAS 2024 places a strong emphasis on the role of technology in addressing modern security challenges. Throughout the exhibition, the focus will be on how innovation and collaboration can enhance global defence capabilities and help tackle complex security threats.
The event is also providing a platform for defence leaders and manufacturers to discuss potential joint ventures, outsourcing opportunities, and collaborations that can further strengthen defence ties between Pakistan and its international partners.
A special seminar on “Pakistan Defence Production Potential – Challenges, Opportunities, and Way Forward” will be held on November 21, where national and international experts will present insights on the future of defence production and research. This seminar aims to provide a roadmap for the continued development of Pakistan’s defence sector and explore ways to overcome challenges while seizing new opportunities for growth and innovation.
The exhibition also plays a critical role in establishing Pakistan as a global hub for defense manufacturing, scientific research, and joint ventures, with a potential for growing exports in the defense sector.
In light of the high-profile international participation, the Karachi police have imposed strict security measures across the city. A ban on all public gatherings has been enforced under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in the Karachi Division until November 24.
The Karachi division commissioner’s office issued a notification citing concerns over security risks, stating that public gatherings could cause inconvenience to international delegates. The ban prohibits protests, rallies, demonstrations, and sit-ins of more than five people within Karachi.
The local administration has also announced the closure of private schools located near Sharea Faisal and Habib Ibrahim Rahmatullah Road from November 19 to 22, as these routes will be frequently used by dignitaries traveling to the Expo Centre.
Section 144 had previously been enforced across Karachi in October ahead of separate political marches, resulting in clashes between police and protesters. This time, the authorities are taking similar precautionary measures to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of IDEAS 2024.
