Senator Afnan links Starlink in Pakistan with Elon Musk’s apology

ISLAMABAD: Senator Afnan Ullah Khan on Wednesday said that Starlink should be granted a license if Elon Musk issues a public apology for his recent anti-Pakistan remarks on social media site.

He made these remarks during the meeting of the National Assembly Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology, which was convened to discuss the licensing process for satellite internet services in Pakistan including the Starlink.

The meeting, chaired by Senator Palwasha Khan, was briefed regarding Starlink’s application for registration, which was submitted on February 24, 2022.

During the session, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) chairman said that the matter had been referred to the Ministry of Interior for security clearance.

Senator Palwasha Khan raised concerns over Starlink owner, Elon Musk’s alleged anti-Pakistan stir on social media, accusing him of aligning with India’s narrative against Pakistan.

“It seems Elon Musk has partnered with India to propagate false allegations against Pakistan,” she remarked.

In response, Senator Afnan Ullah Khan suggested, “The PTA must consider Musk’s campaign against Pakistan before issuing a license. He should apologise for his statements before any further steps are taken.”

The case od Starlink is currently under review by the newly established Pakistan Authority for Space and Regulatory Bodies (PASRB), which will make the final decision regarding the license.