PM Shehbaz calls for concerted efforts to transform Pakistan into an economic power

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday stressed the need for unified national effort to turn Pakistan into a strong economic power, saying the country must demonstrate the same determination and resolve that helped it secure its position as a responsible nuclear state.

While delivering his opening remarks at a televised meeting of the federal cabinet, he said the government’s economic team had worked jointly over the past two years and that their efforts were now beginning to produce results, helping maintain stability in the economy and avoiding the need for rationing.

“This is a long and difficult journey. However, nations that commit to facing and overcoming their challenges are the ones that ultimately meet with success,” he remarked.

He also referred to the recent US-Iran tensions, noting that although a temporary ceasefire was currently in place, the conflict had still generated serious difficulties for regional economies, including Pakistan.

Speaking about the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq observed on May 10, the prime minister said the nation had been blessed with honour and dignity a year earlier due to the professional excellence of the armed forces and the unity of the people.

“The forces, with utmost valor, taught the enemy a lesson they would never forget,” the prime minister remarked.

Looking ahead to upcoming Youm-e-Takbeer on May 28, he said the country continues to remember the historic day when Pakistan established its strong defence capability in 1998. 

He reiterated that Pakistan’s nuclear programme was purely for deterrence and defensive purposes, not for aggression, and said this stance had earned the country international recognition as a responsible nuclear power.

PM Shehbaz also paid tribute to key figures in Pakistan’s nuclear development, acknowledging Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for initiating the programme and Nawaz Sharif for its successful completion.

He further appreciated the contributions of scientists, political leadership, and national institutions in achieving this milestone.

Referring to the martyrdom of Liaquat, a resident of Attock who lost his life after confronting a suicide bomber, the prime minister announced that the government had posthumously awarded him the Sitara-e-Shujaat in recognition of his bravery. He said Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism were unparalleled.

At the conclusion of the meeting, members of the federal cabinet offered Fateha for those who had embraced martyrdom in various terrorist incidents across the country.