Starlink, Owned by Musk, Receives Temporary Approval in Pakistan

In a noteworthy update, Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, announced on Friday that the satellite internet provider ‘Starlink’ has received temporary registration in Pakistan, following the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The minister explained that, with the agreement of various security and regulatory agencies, Starlink has been granted a temporary no-objection certificate (NOC).

She added that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will be responsible for ensuring that the company adheres to fee payments and other licensing stipulations.

According to Fatima, under PM Shehbaz’s guidance, Pakistan is making significant progress in its digital transformation efforts.

She emphasized that modern solutions like satellite internet will substantially improve connectivity, especially in underserved and remote regions of the nation.

This development sets the stage for Elon Musk’s company to formally apply for a license from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), according to well-informed sources.

Obtaining clearance from the Pakistan Satellite and Radio Frequency Authority (PSARB) is a crucial requirement for satellite internet providers to operate within the country. The sources also noted that the organization has resolved key technical aspects, including frequency allocation, power settings, and ground station locations.

“The PTA is expected to issue a license to Starlink within the next four weeks,” sources mentioned, adding that after receiving the PTA license, Starlink is likely to take about a year before launching its services in the country.

To facilitate high-speed internet access, Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites will operate at altitudes between 250 to 500 kilometers.

Furthermore, the government has engaged an international consultant to finalize regulatory guidelines for the satellite provider.

— Additional input from Radio Pakistan.