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KARACHI, Jul 28 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal on Monday launched the “URAAN Pakistan: Creative & Cultural Economy” initiative during a high-profile event held here.
The launch brought together prominent figures from the film, television, drama, performing arts, and music industries, who shared their insights on the challenges facing the sector and emphasized areas where government support is urgently needed.
Addressing the gathering the Minister highlighted the significance of URAAN Pakistan as part of the Prime Minister’s vision to transform Pakistan’s economic trajectory under the 5Es framework. He stated that eight high-potential sectors have been identified under the Exports pillar, with the Creative and Cultural Economy recognized as a critical driver of future growth.
“Our creative economy holds immense untapped potential,” the Minister remarked. “Tonight marks the beginning of a new chapter, one where we invest in this sector, help it flourish, and position it on the global stage.”
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that URAAN Pakistan is not merely an event but a national commitment to nurturing creativity and cultural expression. He invited industry leaders to collaborate with the government by sharing their aspirations and obstacles, adding that a collective approach is essential for scaling Pakistan’s creative industries.
The Minister described the creative economy as both a cultural asset and an economic engine. “Globally, the creative industry has grown into a $2.5 trillion sector and is now a vital source of foreign exchange and national branding for many countries. From the Turkish drama industry to India’s $20 billion creative exports, the world has demonstrated how cultural narratives can shape economies and global perception,” he noted.
He reflected on Pakistan’s own legacy of globally acclaimed television dramas and cultural richness, lamenting the missed opportunities due to a lack of strategic focus. He said that while Pakistan produces 80 to 100 dramas annually, the industry still struggles with limited support and infrastructure. In this context, he underscored the urgent need for policy interventions that genuinely understand and enable the creative workforce.
The Minister highlighted the cultural sector’s role in soft power and nation-building, stating, “Countries that dominate in cultural storytelling influence hearts and minds. A strong narrative can outshine logic and reshape perceptions. Pakistan’s story deserves to be heard—not just through policy documents but through film, art, and music.”
He added that the government is committed to supporting the creative economy as a core part of the country’s export-led growth strategy. “If we are to achieve sustainable development, we must uplift sectors like art, tourism, IT, and the entertainment industry. These are no longer optional—they are central to our economic identity.”
Ahsan Iqbal closed his speech by inviting stakeholders to co-create the path forward, promising government cooperation in removing barriers and providing a supportive ecosystem. “By 2047, when Pakistan and India celebrate 100 years of independence, we must be able to showcase a progressive, creative, and confident Pakistan. That journey begins here with our artists, storytellers, and dreamers.”
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to positioning Pakistan’s creative economy as a strategic pillar of national development, shaping not just exports, but identity, hope, and future possibilities.