KARACHI: Federal Minister for Health, Syed Mustafa Kamal, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the healthcare system by ensuring the provision of basic medical facilities to all citizens.

Speaking at a significant event on medical devices held at Ziauddin University, the minister emphasized the pivotal role of modern technology in advancing healthcare standards across Pakistan.

Highlighting his six-month tenure as Health Minister, Kamal emphasized his principle of focusing on practical, forward-looking measures instead of criticizing previous governments.

He revealed that due to collaborative efforts with the pharmaceutical industry, Pakistan witnessed a 38% increase in pharmaceutical exports over the past year.

“Neighboring countries are attracting multi-billion-dollar industries,” Kamal said. “We are ensuring coordinated efforts to boost our exports and secure Pakistan’s place in the international market.”

He made it clear that he has no personal business or pharmaceutical factory, adding, “It is our responsibility to position you in the international market.”

Referring to Karachi as the city that drives the country’s revenue, the Health Minister said that locally manufactured MRI machines are now ready to enter the market — a major milestone. “If the quality at home isn’t good, even family members won’t buy — quality must always come first,” he stressed.

Kamal also shared that countries like Saudi Arabia are keen to partner with Pakistan, especially in the healthcare and medical devices sector.

Speaking about key reforms, he announced that the registration process for medical devices has been simplified. “Earlier, it took a long time to regulate a single device. Now, through DRAP’s online portal, licenses are issued within just 20 days — no need to travel to Islamabad.”

Reflecting on his tenure as Karachi’s Mayor, Kamal stated, “We spent Rs. 300 billion, and to this day, not even our harshest critics have proven a single rupee of corruption.”

Outlining his work schedule, he said, “I visit the DRAP office and camp office on Saturdays and spend Monday to Thursday in Islamabad.”

“As a Pakistani, I want things to improve — pointing out problems isn’t enough; solving them is our duty,” Kamal said, concluding his speech with a heartfelt remark: “No machine has yet been invented to read the human heart — but sincere efforts always touch the heart.”