In a move to strengthen Pakistan’s digital landscape, Elon Musk’s Starlink has received a temporary no option certificate (NOC) to commence its services in the country, Associated Press of Pakistan reported.

Information Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja confirmed the trend on Friday and noted that Starlink had ensured a temporary registration following the guidance of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

In his statement, the Minister emphasized that the approval came after thorough consultations and consensus among all security and regulatory bodies.

Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will ensure that Starlink complies with the country’s regulatory framework, including fee payments and license obligations.

“This marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey,” noted Shaza. “Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sharif, Pakistan is making significant progress to improve her internet infrastructure,” she added.

PM has directed extensive reforms to improve the connection nationwide with Starlink’s registration seen as a critical step in realizing this vision.

Highlighted the transformative potential for satellite internet, the minister expressed that the approval would provide a much needed boost for connection, especially in undervalued and remote regions.

“Modern solutions such as satellite internet will not only improve the connection, but will bridge the digital gorge over Pakistan,” she said.

The government’s successful relief of Starlink’s registration came through a whole-of-government method with collaboration from key institutions, including cyber crime agencies, PTA and the space authority.

Shaza expressed optimism that this development would lay the basis for the official launch of satellite -based Internet services that marked dawn in a new era in Pakistan’s digital connection.