Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has inaugurated the Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems Expo 2026.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony in Islamabad today, he said the expo reflects Pakistan's determination to become a leading player in the technologies that will shape the 21st century.

The Prime Minister said robotics and autonomous technologies are transforming key sectors, particularly agriculture, by helping farmers detect crop stress, optimize the use of water, fertilizers and pesticides, and respond more effectively to climate-related challenges.

He further said that these technologies can also play a vital role in disaster response by improving access to affected areas and supporting relief operations.

Highlighting Pakistan's progress in indigenous technological development, Shehbaz Sharif said the country has made remarkable advances in autonomous capabilities in the fields of defence and security.

He said the armed forces, under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, have successfully adopted cutting-edge technologies developed within the country.

The Prime Minister noted that several advanced simulators are now being manufactured and assembled entirely in Pakistan, while drones have achieved more than sixty percent indigenization.

He commended scientists, engineers, technocrats and professionals for their contributions to strengthening the country's technological capabilities.

Referring to the success of Marka-e-Haq, Shehbaz Sharif said the world witnessed Pakistan's effective use of advanced autonomous systems to safeguard its physical and cyber frontiers.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Pakistan's universities, research institutions, startups, industries and farming community should work together to build a strong national innovation ecosystem.

He said the knowledge and technologies, developed in the country, should remain indigenous, nationally owned and continuously advanced.

Calling for inclusive technological development, Shehbaz Sharif said the robotics and autonomous systems revolution should benefit farmers, small businesses, women entrepreneurs, young innovators and underserved communities across Pakistan.

He stressed the need to establish clear regulatory and ethical frameworks to ensure that autonomous systems remain safe, secure, transparent and are used solely for the benefit of humanity.

The Prime Minister also announced two major initiatives to promote innovation in the country.

He said the government is launching the Spark and Elevate Programme to transform research into globally competitive technologies, enterprises and high-quality jobs. 

He further announced the establishment of the Pakistan Venture Fund with an initial commitment of twenty million dollars to catalyse investment in Pakistan's technology ecosystem.