Ahsan Iqbal Urges New Bureaucrats to Drive Pakistan Toward $1 Trillion Economy by 2035

Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal has called on the new generation of civil servants to steer Pakistan toward becoming a $1 trillion economy by 2035, emphasizing that the bureaucracy remains a permanent pillar of the state regardless of political changes. He made these remarks while addressing the closing ceremony of the 40th Senior Management Course at the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA) in Islamabad on Friday. A total of 46 officers from various service groups completed the 16-week training program.

Iqbal stressed that civil servants must prepare for shifting global conditions, particularly the growing influence of artificial intelligence and technological advancements. Citing Nokia and BlackBerry as cautionary examples, he noted that organizations failing to adapt risk becoming irrelevant. He urged Pakistan to transform global changes into opportunities for economic and institutional development.

The minister outlined that sustainable economic growth requires peace and security, political stability, at least 10 years of policy continuity, and consistent structural reforms. He recalled that Pakistan was making significant economic progress under Vision 2025 in 2017, but political developments in 2018 disrupted that trajectory and contributed to subsequent economic difficulties. He noted the country is now moving from economic crisis toward stability, with the government's URAAN Pakistan framework aiming to build a $1 trillion economy by 2035. However, he warned that continuing with existing policies and practices could limit the economy to around $600 billion by that year.

Iqbal identified exports, energy, environment, equity, and E-Pakistan as the five main pillars of URAAN Pakistan. He said increasing annual exports beyond $100 billion by 2035 is essential for strengthening the country's economic independence. He also stressed the need to improve education, healthcare, and other social sectors, saying the quality of human resources would play a major role in determining Pakistan's future.

Addressing the newly trained officers, Iqbal said civil servants should move beyond routine administrative responsibilities and contribute to institutional reforms and public service. The ceremony marked the completion of the 16-week training program for the 46 officers.