2025 Begins with Pride for Pakistan
New beginnings often mark the dawn of new possibilities, and for Pakistan, 2025 has started on an inspiring note. With groundbreaking achievements across technology, space exploration, economic development, and international cooperation, the country is paving the way for a prosperous future. These achievements are a testament to Pakistan’s tireless pursuit of progress and its capacity to evolve and flourish in a rapidly-changing world.
Among the most remarkable achievements is the deployment of Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder Block-III fighter jets to Saudi Arabia for the multinational aerial combat exercise “Spears of Victory-2025.” It features the participation of nine countries, including France, Greece, Qatar and the USA. Pakistan’s fighter jets were able to carry out nonstop flights to Saudi Arabia through in-flight air-to-air refueling, showcasing advanced operational capabilities. Perfected with advanced AESA radar and extended-range BVR missiles, the JF-17 Thunder Block-III is a prime indicator of the nation’s indigenously tailored technological pursuits, also this aircraft stands as a testament to the growing aviation prowess of Pakistan.
Such exercises also provide an avenue for collaboration, skill development and exchange of strategies, enhancing Pakistan’s stature in the global aviation landscape. It also highlights the nation’s capacity to innovate and to contribute meaningfully in global forums.
Equally impressive is the launch of Pakistan’s indigenous Electro-Optical (EO-1) satellite on 17 January. The stunning accomplishment is a major milestone for Pakistan’s space journey, with implications for agriculture, urban planning and disaster management. The satellite’s features will provide precision farming in the agriculture sector and better monitoring of crops as well as help food security programs. For urban planning, it will help monitor infrastructure development and manage urban expansion, leading to a more sustainable future.
The EO-1 satellite will also transform how we monitor our environment by providing data on floods, landslides and deforestation. It will also help manage resources like tracking minerals, map oil fields, and glacier recession. This advancement in space technology is not only in line with Pakistan’s National Space Policy but will also equip the country with effective management of its own resources and environmental challenges.
In yet another important development, the Pakistan Navy on Friday conducted a successful anti-narcotics operation in the Northern Arabian Sea. This operation seized $1 million worth of drugs concealed in the secret compartments of a suspicious vessel. These programs go beyond merely dismantling illegal flows; they also align with the goal of creating safer maritime routes while supporting economic stability by reducing crime.
At the same time, the arrival of the world’s largest submarine cable significantly bolstered Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. The move, announced by Minister of State for IT, Shaza Fatima, marks a major step in addressing long-standing issues of internet connectivity and expanding the country’s digital capability. Enhanced connectivity will also impact industries, renew communication systems, and facilitate harmonious integration of cutting-edge technologies. Pakistan is laying a groundwork for a more interconnected and technology-abundant society by tackling digital difficulties.
The rosy picture is complemented by the recent find of 2.8 million tolas of gold from Attock that has been valued around PKR 800 billion. Validated by the Geological Survey of Pakistan, this find has the potential to reshape the economic landscape of Pakistan. With coverage of 32 kilometers, the gold reserve is already causing plans for sustainable extraction, and thus a lot of money for the country.
The implications fall beyond economic development. The gold reserves could boost public confidence in Pakistan’s unterraigned natural resources by creating jobs, reducing poverty, and encouraging investment. Furthermore, the increase in revenue could be invested in key sectors like health care, education, and infrastructure that promote sustainable investments and long-term growth.
These remarkable accomplishments showcase a visionary mindset, prioritizing technological advancement, economic stability, and global partnership. The airframe of the JF-17 Thunder Block-III demonstrates that Pakistan can compete in aviation, while the EO-1 is monumentally reflective of the country’s blossoming space technology capabilities. Pakistan’s resolve to fightagainst illicit activities is reiterated by the anti-narcotics operation, while the submarine cable will add a transformative leap in digital connectivity. And last but not least, the gold discovery presents a rare opening to overcome economic bottlenecks and tap into Pakistan’s true potential.
The dawn of 2025 is a testament to Pakistan’s ability to rise above challenges and embrace opportunities. In doing so, the country is paving the path to a better tomorrow, one that will be remembered as an era of advancements of new ideas and restored optimism for the future.
By Aishma Gul