Starlink’s Skyward Leap is Bridging Pakistan’s Digital Divide

Pakistan is poised to experience a digital revolution as Starlink, the satellite internet business by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is all set to enter the country. The endeavour promises to bring high-speed internet connectivity to far-flung and underserved areas, bridging the endemic digital divide.

During a tour of SpaceX headquarters in Los Angeles, Pakistan’s US Ambassador, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, appreciated the revolutionary possibilities of Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network. He highlighted its ability to improve national connectivity and spur innovation through strategic global collaborations.

Federal Minister of IT and Telecommunication Shaza Khawaja said that a provisional license has been issued to Starlink, and services are likely to be started within the current year. The government is also promoting competition in the field, as seen with the filing of Chinese company Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology for a satellite-based internet license.

The partnership with SpaceX by Pakistan represents a major stride towards the availability of broadband services, particularly in regions that lack traditional infrastructure. With the country going forward, this kind of alliance is set to be at the forefront in defining Pakistan’s digital future.