Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday inaugurated the digital system for the licensing and registration of medical devices, calling it a significant step toward revolutionizing the healthcare sector. Speaking at the launch ceremony, he emphasized that while bringing about a transformation in the health sector is challenging, it is certainly not impossible. He stressed that collective efforts are required to change the destiny of the nation, expressing optimism that the day is not far when Pakistan will stand tall among the nations of the world.
The Prime Minister praised the Ministry of Health for its digitization efforts and congratulated the Federal Health Minister, Health Secretary, CEO of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), and their team for introducing the new digital system. He noted that the foundation for this system was laid during the previous PDM government and that DRAP now has a competent CEO appointed purely on merit.
Highlighting the dedication of the Federal Health Minister, Shehbaz Sharif remarked that the Minister’s performance reflects his past record as the Mayor of Karachi. The Prime Minister mentioned that a hospital and a burn unit gifted by a friendly country had been non-operational for years, but upon his request, Mustafa Kamal took notice and is now working to activate them.
Shehbaz Sharif pointed out that the new digital system would allow for the registration of medical devices within 20 days, a process that previously took years due to inefficiency and corruption. He stated that the reforms have brought transparency and hoped that the Minister, Secretary, and CEO would make timely, merit-based decisions that would set a new standard.
He also recalled launching the Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology and appointing General Azhar Kiani to lead it, praising his contribution in turning the hospital into one of the best cardiac centers in Pakistan. The Prime Minister stressed the need for a similar approach across the country, requiring coordinated efforts between federal and provincial governments.
Reflecting on past healthcare challenges, he recalled the 2015–16 initiative to provide free medicines to deserving patients. Lab testing revealed that 60% of the medicines were substandard at the time. Subsequent reforms ensured that quality medicines became available in public hospitals regardless of the patients’ socioeconomic status.
The Prime Minister concluded that despite obstacles, determined leadership and hard work can pave the way for national progress. He underscored the importance of seeking divine help, stating that hard work never goes unrewarded by Allah. “We must change Pakistan’s fate, and soon a day will come when we walk proudly among the nations of the world,” he declared.
