Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has called for a new focus on economic development, saying Pakistan must now move toward a phase driven by technology, innovation, skills and exports.

Addressing the closing ceremony of the Digital Design and Verification Training 2026 at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute on Friday, Iqbal said the country’s “battle for truth” was over and the next challenge was the “battle for development.”

He said the Digital Design and Verification Training Program was approved under the Prime Minister’s vision to build Pakistan’s capabilities in advanced technology.

The first batch of the Digital IC Design and Verification program included 40 students who completed four months of training.

According to Iqbal, the trainees are not simply receiving certificates but are helping establish the foundation for Pakistan to enter a new technology industry.

He said semiconductor and chip design capabilities are essential for a modern economy and Pakistan needs young professionals who can convert knowledge into technology and ultimately into exports.

Iqbal noted that semiconductors are an essential part of modern products, ranging from laptops and automobiles to industrial machinery.

He also highlighted GIK Institute’s role in developing skilled human resources and recalled that seven national technology centers were established in 2017 in areas including big data, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and robotics.

The minister said Quantum Valley Pakistan would further support research, innovation and advanced technology development.

He stressed that Pakistan’s future economic model should rest on knowledge, technology, innovation and exports, with a greater emphasis on developing skilled human capital.

Iqbal said the country now needs to translate its technological capabilities into stronger economic output and build a more competitive, export-oriented economy.