Ahsan Iqbal Highlights Civil Service Role in Export-Led Growth
Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Prof Ahsan Iqbal, has urged Pakistan’s civil servants to spearhead a national transformation through export-led growth, technological integration, and inclusive development. Speaking at the inauguration of a modern classroom at the Pakistan Administrative Staff College (PASC) in Lahore, during the launch of the 123rd National Management Course (NMC), he emphasised the need for a dynamic and accountable governance framework.
Ahsan Iqbal introduced the STAR model — Stable, Transparent, Agile, and Responsible — as a blueprint for reforming public institutions. He underlined the importance of shifting from procedure-based systems to mission-oriented service delivery, particularly at a time when the country faces challenges requiring swift and data-driven decision-making.
The minister stressed that civil service must adapt to digital governance, strengthen infrastructure, build climate resilience, and contribute actively to sustainable and equitable growth. He cited the example of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as a successful case where committed civil servants played a vital role across ministries.
Unveiling the government’s long-term economic vision titled ‘URAAN Pakistan,’ Iqbal shared an ambitious roadmap aiming to transform Pakistan into a $1 trillion economy by 2035. This strategy is anchored in five pillars — Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy & Infrastructure, and Equity & Empowerment (5Es).
He reminded participants of their moral and professional duty, drawing from Islamic values that define leadership as a responsibility, not a privilege. Encouraging innovation and dedication, the minister urged officers to participate in the training with a deep sense of purpose and service to the nation.