Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan has moved into an era of national reforms, rejecting claims that the country’s institutions have failed.
Speaking at the launch ceremony of a national anthem ahead of Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the minister said the initiative reflects a renewed commitment to national unity, confidence, and development.
Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s foundation was built on the ideas of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam, with Iqbal’s philosophy of self-belief, knowledge, and character providing direction and Quaid-e-Azam turning those ideals into an independent state.
He said the year 2026 offers an opportunity to reconnect with the vision of Pakistan’s founders and accelerate national progress.
Rejecting criticism about governance and institutions, the minister said Pakistan is not witnessing a collapse of its system but is undergoing a period of transformation and reform.
“This is not the age of system failure; it is the age of national reform,” he said, adding that Pakistan is upgrading its institutions, governance mechanisms, and economic priorities to compete in the modern world.
The minister stressed that national development requires cooperation among the government, youth, private sector, experts, civil society, and state institutions.
Highlighting the importance of young Pakistanis, Ahsan Iqbal said the country’s youth are its biggest opportunity. “Our youth are not cockroaches; they are Iqbal’s Shaheens,” he said, urging them to embrace ambition, innovation, and confidence.
He recalled that Pakistan faced severe economic uncertainty in 2022, with predictions of a possible default. However, he said collective efforts and policy measures helped the country regain economic stability.
Talking about the government’s economic roadmap, Ahsan Iqbal said URAAN Pakistan aims to transform the economy by expanding exports, promoting technology, strengthening digital sectors, developing skills, improving education and healthcare, and creating the foundation for a $1 trillion economy.
He added that investments in artificial intelligence, digital training, and emerging technologies are being made to prepare young Pakistanis for future opportunities.
The minister described the newly launched anthem as a symbol of national purpose rather than just a musical composition. He said it reflects Iqbal’s message of self-confidence and Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of a strong and prosperous Pakistan.
Ahsan Iqbal concluded that Pakistan’s future depends on the determination, talent, and resilience of its people, especially its youth, and called URAAN Pakistan a national mission beyond political boundaries.
