ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday praised the Ministry of National Health Services for its successful implementation of digital reforms, describing the launch of a new medical device licensing and registration system as a “commendable achievement.”
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister emphasized the importance of digital transformation in improving governance. “There are mountainous challenges, but when decisions are made with sincerity and conviction, no force can block the way,” he remarked.
He specifically applauded Federal Health Minister Dr. Nadeem Jan and his team for their “valuable work” in streamlining the medical device approval process, calling the digital initiative a step toward transparency, accountability, and faster service delivery in the healthcare sector.
Shehbaz Sharif also acknowledged the role of health sector expert Mustafa Kamal, recognizing his efforts to revive a hospital project backed by a friendly country, which had previously stalled. The project is now moving forward again thanks to the ministry’s active involvement.
On institutional governance, the prime minister highlighted that the CEO of the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) was appointed purely on merit, and criticized past administrations for sidelining competent individuals in regulatory bodies.
The new digital system is expected to significantly reduce delays, increase public trust, and facilitate local and international manufacturers seeking approvals for their medical equipment, helping modernize Pakistan’s healthcare infrastructure.