A Roadmap to Pakistan’s Economic Revival

In a country where conversations around economic reform often circle the same tired points, Super Pakistan emerges as a breath of fresh air—an unapologetically bold and visionary roadmap to economic revival. Packed with unconventional proposals and untapped possibilities, this book presents ideas that have never been discussed in Pakistan’s 75-year history. From Astro-tourism to futuristic universities, renaming cities to reimagining tax reforms, author Ilyas M. Zeeshan paints a compelling picture of what Pakistan could become: the 15th largest economy in the world within just five years, if a V-shaped economic growth model is adopted.

Mr. Zeeshan’s insights are anything but theoretical. Born and raised in Karachi, he earned his master’s in International Relations from Roosevelt University, Chicago in 1980, and later pursued an MBA from the same institution. He is a seasoned businessman, inventor and author of five books—including work on President Donald Trump—and has appeared on various radio and television platforms in the United States. With firsthand experience across several dozen countries, Mr. Zeeshan brings a unique global lens to Pakistan’s challenges and opportunities. Currently based in the suburbs of Washington, DC, he joins us for an exclusive conversation with Glam Magazine to share his transformative vision for a Super Pakistan.

•  “Super Pakistan” is a bold title. What inspired you to write this book, and what is your vision of ‘super’ Pakistan?

“Super Pakistan” refers to the idea that a country’s economic size should match its population ranking. Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world. If and when its economy rises to the same level, it will justifiably be known as Super Pakistan. If we follow the roadmap in the book—and assuming there’s no major war or natural disaster—Pakistan can reach a one trillion dollar economy in five years and become the 15th largest economy in 10 years. Within a generation, it could be the 5th largest economy globally.

• Your book suggests enterprising ideas to boost Pakistan’s economy. Which one do you believe has the most realistic potential in the next five years?

First and foremost, we must drastically reduce unemployment. The way to do that is by teaching people to become entrepreneurs. The old model of going to school for sixteen years to earn above-average income is fading. Now, with the internet and YouTube, one can become productive in less than 16 months. I have explained this in Chapter Five: Triangle of Full Employment. I have even listed the top 20 skills that can be learned in less than a year. If someone knows English, they can be hired in Europe and beyond as independent service providers, working comfortably from home.

•  As someone who explores ideas, how do you see the role of creativity and innovation in transforming a nation’s economy?

Innovation has no boundaries. Every product—tangible or intangible—can be improved. That’s the essence of Chapter Four: Innovation Nation. Anyone can learn to innovate. Age, background, or education doesn’t matter. I describe simple, actionable steps in the book. Even low-level innovation can help people build a niche, a competitive edge and dominate markets.

• You’ve proposed several fascinating ideas. Can you share some of the standout ones, which can help boost Pakistan’s economy?

Yes, I’ve suggested more than two dozen new ideas. Let’s explore a few:

Astro-Tourism: A new form of tourism that hasn’t been tapped. We don’t need advanced space programmes to participate. We can plan trips 30 kilometers above Earth near the Karman Line, where tourists could experience weightlessness for a few hours. It’s realistic, exciting, and can generate significant revenue. Europe, Russia, and China are selling their advance space travel trips for millions of dollars.

Super University: A world-class institution where Nobel Prize winners are visiting professors. It would teach futuristic subjects like nanotechnology, genomics, and cybersecurity—fields that will soon be as in-demand as AI. This would attract the children of millionaires and billionaires worldwide.

Reunification with Bangladesh: Politically bold, yes. But dialogue could start based on the Six Points of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Pakistan could offer a nuclear umbrella for Bangladesh’s security as a basis for discussions.

A Second Name for Pakistan: Countries have changed names to strengthen identity. A second name could boost Pakistan’s soft power, increase nationalism, and even reinforce our claim on the Koh-i-Noor.

Renaming Cities: Giving major cities new names rooted in culture and pride will create nostalgia and increase civic ownership.

Babri Masjid Replica: I propose constructing a replica on the historic route Babur took into the subcontinent. It could become a symbol and boost religious tourism, particularly from Muslim nations.

Redesign of Currency: A beautifully designed new currency note that foreigners would want to keep as a souvenir, showcasing art and pride.

Renaming Parliament Houses: Changing the names of both houses of parliament to Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas—terms deeply rooted in Mughal and South Asian history—would give a uniquely Pakistani imprint.

Q.  What about political reforms? How do we ensure stability in governance?

Zeeshan: In Chapter Six, I suggest a framework where every Prime Minister can complete their full term. Stability is key for economic and social progress. I also propose reforms that make political parties disincentivized to incite violence. In Chapter Seven, I discuss a law that ensures violent processions are no longer in their interest. Additionally, I’ve proposed a strategy to make people pay taxes rapidly and willingly. It’s about rebuilding trust and delivering value.

• You hinted at a plan involving overseas Pakistanis and international startups. What’s that about?

I have a detailed and specific plan to launch three startup corporations in the United States with the support of overseas Pakistanis. These ventures involve highly unique concepts—ranging from traditional products to cutting-edge technology. The franchise potential is global, and the revenue could be in the hundreds of billions. The remittances from these companies can be reinvested in Pakistan’s high-tech industries, helping accelerate growth and innovation. While I can’t disclose all details publicly, interested overseas Pakistaniscan contact me directly on email.

Q.  One of your closing thoughts in the book is about mindset. What exactly is the “semi-cyborg” mindset?

It’s time Pakistan says goodbye to Semi-Amish thinking—a reference to outdated, overly conservative, or anti-tech mindsets. We must embrace a semi-cyborg mindset: one that integrates tradition with futuristic thinking.

This means being tech-savvy, globally aware, and driven by innovation—a people ready to shape the future rather than be shaped by it.

• Lastly what message would you like to give especially to the young dreamers, thinkers and future change makers of Pakistan?

Pakistan doesn’t lack talent—it lacks direction and bold execution. Super Pakistan is not fiction. It’s a roadmap built with realistic, achievable ideas. If the youth, overseas Pakistanis, and policymakers come together with vision and determination, nothing can stop us from becoming a global powerhouse.

Contact details: ILYASZESHAN@GMAIL.COM

Download the free E-book: www.superpakistan.us