Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal on Monday reaffirmed the government's commitment to promoting Pakistan’s creative economy, calling it a vital pillar for national development and economic revival.

Speaking at a special meeting with personalities from the film, drama, and advertising sectors at a local hotel in Karachi, the minister said the government is determined to support the creative industries under the "Uraan Pakistan" initiative.

"The creative economy is now a $2.5 trillion global industry, and Pakistan must claim its share by supporting our filmmakers, writers, and artists. The creative industry can play an important role in the growth of the national economy," said Ahsan Iqbal. “Our cultural identity is strong, and we must channel it into productive and globally competitive creative outputs.”

He further said Pakistan's creative sectors have made extraordinary progress in film, drama, and advertising.

Boosting exports through creative talent

He noted that while Pakistan produces around 80 to 100 dramas annually and fewer than 80 films, the potential remains largely untapped. “We must move toward an export-led economy, and the creative industry can become a powerful tool to enhance our exports,” he stated. "We are not visible on any platforms in the world."

Iqbal emphasized the need to present a positive and evolving image of Pakistan to the world. “Our media has the power to influence perceptions. This sector is awakening the emotions of every nation and your role is very important. Unlike India, where national institutions like the police are never mocked on screen, we often undermine our image through negative portrayals,” he remarked.

The creative industry can be improved through scripts and better acting, Iqbal remarked. Referencing Turkiye’s international success with historical dramas like Diriliş: Ertuğrul, he encouraged Pakistani producers to explore inspirational stories from the country’s past and present.

“If Turkiye can make a global hit on Ertugrul, why can’t we produce a drama on Babar Azam?” he questioned.

Independence Day, economic recovery

In his media interaction at the Karachi Press Club, Ahsan Iqbal praised the club's historic role in promoting democracy and announced that this year’s Independence Day would be celebrated as a symbol of justice and fairness.

He also touched on broader national issues, asserting that Pakistan was moving toward economic recovery and political stability. “We are progressing economically in the region and diplomatically on the world stage,” he said, highlighting the improving relations between Pakistan and the United States, as well as other Muslim countries.

Taking aim at the previous PTI-led government, the minister blamed them for pushing the economy into a “quagmire.” He added that international institutions were now raising Pakistan’s economic rating and that the country was "flying diplomatically, defensively, and economically."

Other key announcements

Ahsan Iqbal confirmed that the extension of the Green Line project in Karachi is under review and will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister himself.
He also revealed plans to sign an agreement with the Karachi Press Club for journalist training on economic policy.
Expressing concern over child health, he noted that 40% of Pakistani children remain physically weak, stressing the need for urgent reforms in nutrition and education.

Concluding his visit, Ahsan Iqbal said the Uraan Pakistan project would help promote national development by unlocking the creative potential of Pakistan’s youth and media professionals.