In NA speech, PM Shehbaz once again invites opposition for dialogue

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday once again extended an olive branch to opposition parties, urging them to sit together and resolve political differences through dialogue, which he said was essential for strengthening democratic norms in the country.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly (NA), the premier recalled that he had repeatedly advocated for agreements on democracy and economic stability in the past, but those proposals did not receive a positive response from the opposition.

Despite political differences, PM Shehbaz said he continued to hold opposition leaders Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Barrister Gohar Khan in high regard and remained open to discussions.

Addressing opposition lawmakers directly, he remarked, “I am available. It is never too late to mend,” signaling his readiness to engage in meaningful negotiations.

The prime minister noted that parliamentarians represented every region of Pakistan and described the National Assembly as a collective home where voices from all four provinces come together.

PM Shehbaz said that differing political views and ideologies were natural in a democracy, but all stakeholders must remain united in their commitment to strengthening Pakistan and elevating its standing among nations.

He stressed that the country's progress and stability should remain above political interests.
Referring to comments made by the opposition leader, PM Shehbaz said that there was no disagreement regarding the rights of provinces over their natural and economic resources, as those rights were fully recognized.

Highlighting the Reko Diq project, he said that the agreement had been finalized after extensive consultations with provincial authorities and local communities, ensuring that their concerns and interests were taken into account.

He described the arrangement as a model of cooperation and pointed to the landmark NFC Award of 2010, under which Balochistan's share was increased by 100 percent.

The prime minister said Punjab had made a major contribution at the time by allocating Rs11 billion annually, while the other provinces had also played their part in supporting the agreement.

PM Shehbaz further stated that Rs75 billion had been earmarked for a solarization initiative in Punjab, benefiting the farming community, while a major road project connecting Gwadar and Chaman was currently being developed at a cost of Rs300 billion.

He said that the project was not undertaken in response to any demand from the opposition leader. Rather, he approved it because he considered it his responsibility to ensure balanced development across all provinces.

The prime minister emphasized that every region of the country deserved equal opportunities for growth and prosperity.

Expressing deep sorrow over the loss of 22 security personnel in a helicopter crash, PM Shehbaz noted that two members of the crew belonged to the Christian community.

He said that terrorist activities in Balochistan were being backed by foreign elements, adding that the government possessed clear evidence proving external involvement.

Responding to another point raised by the opposition leader, PM Shehbaz defended that the decision to fence the Durand Line, saying the measure was taken to enhance national security and protect citizens, making it a necessary step.

“If a child’s life in the country is saved, he considers spending an amount on border fencing justified,” he said.

PM Shehbaz also spoke about the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), where members of law enforcement agencies, security institutions and the armed forces continue to confront terrorism with courage while laying down their lives in the line of duty.

“They left their children orphans but saved millions of children of the nation. We collectively owe to their sacrifices; therefore, we should pay homage to martyrs,” he said.

Describing the sacrifices of the country's martyrs as a painful yet proud chapter in Pakistan’s history, PM Shehbaz said that if the nation failed to honour those who had given their lives for its security, future generations would never forgive such neglect.