IDEAS 2018 opens for public viewing

Defence minister witnesses signing of 30 MoUs


Our Correspondent December 01, 2018
Citizens visit the IDEAS 2018 exhibition where stalls showcased various weapons and defence equipment. People took the opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the country’s defence. PHOTOS: PPI

KARACHI: The four-day defence equipment expo IDEAS 2018 concluded on Friday. A large number of citizens visited the exhibition on the fourth day. Federal Defence Production Minister Zubaida Jalal attended the seminar where 30 MOUs were signed on the last day. Special services group gave demonstration of anti-terrorism activities and armed forces exhibited a rifle drill.

The visitors, who came in groups as well as individuals, showed an interest in the defence equipment on display at local and foreign stalls and asked questions. The most popular items attracting the attention of visitors were warjets, tanks and anti-aircraft guns made in Pakistan Ordinance Factory and Pakistan Heavy Industries Taxila. The most attractive among these were POFI gun and other long and short-range guns. The stalls showcasing tanks made in Pakistan, including AlKhalid, AlZarar, AlHadid and AlUswah, pulled in crowds.

Pakistan's military might on display at IDEAS 2018

Among the international exhibitors, stalls of China, Poland, Russia and Turkey were popular.

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On the last day, the citizens, who did not carry a CNIC, were also allowed to enter. Visitors said that a strong bond between the armed forces and the people provides a nation the power to deal any internal or external challenge.

Hawaldar Enayat Ali, who had lost his hand during the operation Zarb-e-Azb in North Waziristan and had installed an artificial hand, also attended the exhibition. Many citizens took selfies with him and appreciated his sacrifice for the nation.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, he said that he hails from the same village where Nishan-e-Haider holder Lalak Jan used to live.

The six halls of the Expo Centre and the three marquees which housed defence equipment and products remained crowded during the visits after Friday prayers where large number of university, college and school students came to see the exhibition. Citizens said that the exhibition was a unique experience as they got the chance to witness the military assets of navy, army and air force at the same time. The visitors took a lot of photos with the defence equipment.

Pakistan army special services group and quick response force demonstrated their anti-terrorism expertise by helping release a bus that was fake high jacked by terrorists. Helicopters also participated in the demonstration.

IDEAS 2018: CM sees opportunity for mutual trade, cooperation

Jalal also distributed awards and certificates to Pakistani and foreign exhibitors in different categories. Turkey, China, Russia, Poland and United Arab Emirates companies received the awards for large stalls. Pakistan Heavy Industry Taxila and Pakistan Ordinance Factory received awards for most decorated stalls.

Addressing the media after the seminar, Jalal said that steel mills play an important role in the defence industry. Saying that the government had categorically said that steel mills will not be privatised, she said that concrete steps were being taken to restore steel mills.

The exhibition also provided opportunities of business to business meetings. More than 70,000 visitors turned up to the exhibition. The exhibition reinforced the impression that Pakistan has become self-sufficient in defence production.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 1st, 2018.

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