I wish to extend a very warm welcome to our worthy guests who have graced our country from various parts of the world to participate in the IDEAS-2008. Their presence amongst us will certainly go a long way in dispelling any apprehension whatsoever regarding our country in the minds of many. At the same time I welcome our respected guests from within the country as well. It is a matter of great satisfaction and pleasure for DEPO to be the event Coordinator for the fifth IDEAS-2008. The chronicle of “IDEAS” Series of exhibitions is one of continuous success. I say this with great pride that over a period of eight years this event has prominently emerged on the map of world defence exhibitions.

The foremost purpose of IDEAS is to act as a rendezvous in this part of the world for convergence of international defence exhibitors, defence delegations, defence and security analysts and top policy makers. It further provides a platform to showcase Pakistan’s defence production capability in the conventional realm. We also avail this opportunity to demonstrate Pakistan’s capabilities and skills in organization, training and defence services sector including maintenance, repair and overhauling facilities. The platform of IDEAS is further utilized for promotion of vendor industry of the country. It also brings together international manufacturers and suppliers of products and services to explore the opportunities for cooperation in the field of defence production through joint ventures, outsourcing and collaboration. IDEAS, in fact, is a great meeting point to promote friendship and cooperation.

IDEAS exemplify successful public / private sector partnership. It has grown in its reach, participation and international attendance to a level that is second to none in the region. In addition, the profile of the high-level delegations visiting Pakistan to attend this exhibition adds to the prestige and stature of this event and we are proud to host this biennial mega event with great pleasure.

I would like to convey my gratitude to the Govt. of Pakistan, Govt. of Sindh and other related departments to extend their unflinching support to ensure that IDEAS-2008 is held in a amicable / harmonious atmosphere. I would like to make a special mention of Karachi and its inhabitants. Only this mega city and the hospitality of its generous and liberal populace has the capacity and potential to provide venue for such a grand event.