Bilawal Calls for Karachi’s Role in Expanding Pakistan’s Defence Exports Amid Rising Global Demand
Karachi: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called for greater involvement of Karachi in Pakistan’s “Made in Pakistan” defence manufacturing sector, saying that global demand for locally produced military equipment is increasing.
Speaking at a ceremony held after the inauguration of Karachi’s Shahrah-e-Bhutto, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who also previously served as foreign minister, stated that Pakistan’s defence exports have reportedly seen a significant rise following what he described as Pakistan’s military success in the May 2025 conflict with India. He claimed that several countries have shown renewed interest in purchasing defence equipment made in Pakistan, highlighting that international buyers often prefer military hardware that has been tested in real combat situations.
He emphasized that Karachi should play a stronger role in expanding the country’s defence production capabilities, saying: “We want Karachi to contribute to Made in Pakistan defence production as well.”
According to the remarks cited in the report, the four-day conflict between Pakistan and India began on May 7 last year after India launched an attack in response to an incident involving tourists in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. During the escalation, Pakistan claimed it responded militarily and downed several Indian fighter jets, including French-made Rafale aircraft, as well as multiple drones.
Following these developments, the report states that countries such as Iran, Bangladesh, and Libya reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Pakistani defence equipment. It was also mentioned that discussions were underway regarding potential deals involving platforms like the JF-17 Thunder fighter jet, according to earlier media reports.
Separately, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari said that the aftermath of the Middle East conflict has placed a heavy burden on ordinary citizens, particularly those already struggling with rising utility costs such as electricity and gas bills. He argued that ongoing instability in the region is worsening global economic pressures.
He warned that continued conflict could further damage economic conditions, stating that peace in the region is essential to ease financial difficulties. “If the war does not end, the economic situation will become more serious,” he reportedly said.
The report also referenced tensions in the Middle East, stating that the conflict escalated on February 28 after coordinated strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran. In response, Iran reportedly targeted Israeli territory and US military bases across the region, while disruptions in strategic shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz contributed to rising global oil prices.
