Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called for concerted national efforts to transform Pakistan into an economic power, urging the same level of dedication and resilience that enabled the country to achieve its status as a responsible nuclear state.
The prime minister, in his televised opening remarks at the meeting of the federal cabinet, highlighted that the government’s economic team had made collective efforts over the past two years, which were coming to fruition, ensuring stability and preventing 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.
Referring to the US-Iran conflict, he said that while a temporary ceasefire was currently in place, the war had created significant hurdles for regional economies, including Pakistan.
About the celebrations of the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq on May 10, he said that a year ago, Allah had blessed the nation with grandeur due to the professional excellence of the armed forces and national unity.
“The forces, with utmost valor, taught the enemy a lesson they would never forget,” the prime minister remarked.
Looking ahead to the upcoming Youm-e-Takbeer on May 28, the prime minister emphasized that the nation remembered that day as the moment Pakistan achieved an impregnable defense in 1998. He underscored that Pakistan’s nuclear assets were strictly for deterrence and defense, not offense that has earned the country global recognition as a responsible nuclear state.
Prime Minister Shehbaz paid rich tribute to the “heroes” of Pakistan’s nuclear journey, specifically crediting Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for initiating the program and Nawaz Sharif for its successful conclusion. He also lauded the vital roles played by scientists, politicians, and national institutions in reaching this milestone.
Referring to the martyrdom of Liaquat, a resident of Attock, who was martyred after he confronted a suicide bomber, the prime minister said the government had posthumously conferred Sitara-e-Shujaat to recognise his sacrifice. The sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in the fight against terrorism are unmatched, he remarked.
Later, the members of the federal cabinet offered Fateha for the martyred souls who laid down their lives in various terror-related incidents across the country.
