PTA chief meets Starlink team for Pakistan launch plan

Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Major General (Retd) Hafeez ur Rehman met with a Starlink team in Barcelona, Spain, to discuss opportunities for enhancing digital connectivity in Pakistan.

According to a press release issued by PTA, the meeting took place during the GSMA Mobile World Congress 2025 in Barcelona. Discussions revolved around improving digital connectivity in Pakistan, particularly focusing on providing affordable and high-quality broadband access in remote and underserved areas.

The PTA chairman expressed his commitment to leveraging modern technologies to bridge the digital divide. He also mentioned that Starlink is currently being registered with Pakistan's Satellite Regulatory Body. 

During the meeting, the Starlink team briefed PTA officials on satellite internet solutions and their potential impact on mobile phone services and connectivity in remote areas. Both sides also explored strategies for an effective regulatory framework and seamless integration of satellite services in the country.

On January 23, 2025, the PTA confirmed that Starlink intends to establish two to three ground stations in Pakistan. 

The telecommunication authority had submitted a written response to the Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication, stating that Starlink aims to provide direct internet services to Pakistani users through LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites.

Earlier, on January 4, Elon Musk confirmed in a tweet posted on Saturday that the internet satellite is waiting for government approvals to launch its services in Pakistan.

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