ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – In line with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of promoting industrial modernization, clean energy, and sustainable economic growth, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, witnessed the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between StarCharge, StarCharge Energy Pakistan, and Bahum Global Ltd. This development aligns with broader government initiatives aimed at upgrading domestic infrastructure, similar to how the Finance Minister Aurangzeb explores Honeywell investment to modernize refineries, emphasizing a shift toward advanced technological self-reliance.

Boosting Pakistan’s Electric Vehicle Ecosystem

The agreement marks a significant milestone in strengthening Pakistan’s electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem through international collaboration, local manufacturing, and the essential transfer of technology. Speaking at the ceremony, Haroon Akhtar Khan underscored that the government remains steadfast in its commitment to transforming the national transportation sector through the aggressive promotion of electric mobility.

Future Policy and Industrial Growth

The SAPM highlighted that the forthcoming Battery Energy Storage System Policy is designed to catalyze an EV revolution within the country. By encouraging local manufacturing and attracting substantial foreign investment, the policy aims to build a sustainable industrial landscape. These efforts reflect a wider strategy for economic reform, akin to Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik discussing expanding energy cooperation with global partners to stabilize the energy sector. Mr. Khan emphasized that the transition to EVs will substantially decrease the nation’s reliance on imported petroleum, ultimately reducing the import bill while fostering environmental sustainability.

Infrastructure and Regional Cooperation

Addressing the event, the SAPM noted that the government is actively facilitating the establishment of comprehensive EV charging infrastructure. The expansion of these charging stations is considered critical to making electric mobility a practical and convenient choice for consumers nationwide. Haroon Akhtar Khan further identified electric vehicles as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s industrial future. He highlighted that strategic partnerships with leading Chinese enterprises will accelerate the local manufacturing of EV batteries, bolster domestic industrial capabilities, and create new employment opportunities for the youth.

Long-term Economic Goals

The SAPM reiterated that the strengthening of bilateral industrial cooperation with China, particularly in advanced manufacturing and clean energy, remains a government priority. This collaborative approach is expected to enhance Pakistan’s long-term economic competitiveness. The ceremony was attended by Secretary for Industries and Production, Saif Anjum, Joint Secretary Freedoon Akram Sheikh, along with representatives from the participating firms and members of the business community.