ISLAMABAD -UNS: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTI) Chairman Major Gen (retd) Hafeezur Rehman on Tuesday confirmed that talks were underway for the registration of satellite-based internet provider Starlink in the country.
Spokesperson of the PTA said that the Musk-owned Starlink team met with Rehman on the sidelines of the GSMA Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona.
During the meeting, the PTA chairman reaffirmed the resolve to use modern technology to promote connectivity in the country.
“Registration with satellite regulatory body is a prerequisite for obtaining a license,” the spokesperson quoted the PTA chairman as saying.
Govt to hire consultant for regulatory framework
In January this year, reports emerged that the federal government planned to hire a consultant to finalise regulations for the satellite-based company Starlink’s internet services in Pakistan.
The session, which included representatives from SUPARCO, PTA, and the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board, delved into Starlink’s licensing and regulatory progress alongside the development of a regulatory framework for Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.
During the meeting, it was decided to hire a consultant to assist the licensing process for Starlink and LEO satellites, aiming to align Pakistan’s satellite policies with international standards.
The meeting also discussed how the use of LEO satellites could enhance connectivity and contribute to the nation’s technological advancement.
Earlier, Musk had confirmed that he was awaiting Islamabad’s approval to launch Starlink in Pakistan. He made the remarks while responding to messages on social media platform X by a Pakistani social media activist.
