IDEAS 2024 Opens at Karachi Expo Centre with Defence Minister Inaugurating Mega Event
KARACHI: The 12th edition of the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2024) kicked off at the Karachi Expo Centre on Tuesday. The event, which runs until Friday, November 22, was inaugurated by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif.
The major regional exhibition has attracted over 350 high-level delegations from 55 countries, alongside numerous trade visitors. Organised biennially by the Defence Export Promotion Organisation (DEPO), IDEAS has established itself as a leading platform for showcasing cutting-edge advancements in defence technology.
Since its inception in 2000, IDEAS has become a key global gathering for defence manufacturers, researchers, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, promoting collaboration and innovation in the defence and security sectors. The exhibition serves as a hub for synergistic business opportunities and international cooperation.
In his inaugural address, Defence Minister Asif highlighted the significant investment opportunities in Pakistan, including joint ventures and trade in various sectors, particularly the defence industry. He emphasized that IDEAS offers a regional gateway for international manufacturers and suppliers to explore new avenues for defence cooperation, including outsourcing and partnerships.
Asif also stressed the importance of technology in addressing modern security challenges, noting that its responsible use could make the world a safer place. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to international peace and stability, guided by principles of reciprocity, mutual interests, and adherence to international norms.
The minister further emphasized that Pakistan’s defence industry has reached a level of quality and reliability, enabling its products to compete globally. However, he called for greater collaboration between academia and industry, as well as increased integration of the public and private defence sectors, to further advance the country’s defence manufacturing capabilities.
IDEAS 2024 has broken records in terms of space, exhibitor participation, and delegate attendance, with over 560 defence equipment exhibitors from 41 countries, including Turkey, China, Iran, the UK, North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and the Far East. Of these, 55% are international exhibitors, and 45% are local.
