Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting the Palestinian people, assuring maximum contribution to the reconstruction phase of Gaza following the 42-day ceasefire.
In his televised opening remarks at the meeting of the federal cabinet chaired by him, the premier expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of more than 50,000 Palestinian lives, including men, women, and children, as well as the widespread devastation of Palestinian cities.
PM Shehbaz prayed that the temporary ceasefire would evolve into a lasting peace agreement, noting that despite numerous challenges, Pakistan had sent aid to Palestine to provide relief to those affected by the conflict.
In his address, PM Shehbaz also spoke about the significance of the Gwadar International Airport, which began operations on Monday, marking the completion of one of Pakistan's largest infrastructure projects.
The airport, funded with $230 million by China, is seen as a critical development for Balochistan and the entire country.
He told the cabinet members that the Gwadar International Airport had started its operations on Monday as one of Pakistan’s biggest facilities has been completed with $230 million in funding by China.
He said that Gwadar Airport could bring about immense benefits to the people of Balochistan as well as the whole country, if run on commercial lines.
The premier also took the opportunity to criticize those who oppose the country’s progress, noting that such forces are not only harming Balochistan but also displaying hostility toward Pakistan as a whole.
PM Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan's engagement with the World Bank, which recently announced a $20 billion loan as part of the 10-Year Country Partnership Framework aimed at advancing the country’s social sectors and infrastructure.
He urged the relevant government ministries to work swiftly and collaboratively to ensure that the objectives of this framework are met and any challenges in its implementation are overcome.
On the economic front, Shehbaz Sharif shared his satisfaction with the remarkable growth in Pakistan’s IT exports, which reached an all-time high of $348 million in December 2024.
He commended the efforts of the Ministry of IT and its officials, urging them to continue pushing for even greater progress in the sector.
The prime minister stressed that achieving economic growth requires serious and concerted efforts from all stakeholders, noting that teamwork and dedication are essential for Pakistan’s advancement.
Meanwhile, PM Shehbaz also expressed his hopes for a smooth and comfortable Hajj experience for Pakistani pilgrims.
He assured that the concerned ministry was working diligently to ensure better facilities for pilgrims in both Makkah and Madinah.
The prime minister praised the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s security forces, emphasizing the immense contributions they make to the nation’s peace and prosperity, and reaffirmed the country’s gratitude for their selfless service.