Prime minister says regional conflict has impacted Pakistan’s economy despite temporary ceasefire
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict has created significant hurdles for Pakistan’s economy, warning that regional instability continues to affect economic activity despite a temporary ceasefire.
Speaking during a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said the conflict had posed serious challenges for economies across the region, including Pakistan.
“The U.S.-Iran conflict, while currently under a temporary ceasefire, has created significant hurdles for regional economies, including Pakistan,” he said in televised remarks at the start of the cabinet session.
The prime minister called for collective national efforts to transform Pakistan into an economic power, urging the nation to demonstrate the same resilience and determination that enabled the country to become a responsible nuclear state.
Shehbaz said the government’s economic team had worked consistently over the past two years to stabilize the economy, adding that those efforts were now producing results and helping the country avoid shortages and economic disruption.
“This is a long and difficult journey. Nations that commit to overcoming their challenges are ultimately the ones that succeed,” he said.
Referring to the first anniversary celebrations of Marka-e-Haq observed on May 10, the prime minister praised Pakistan’s armed forces and national unity, saying the country had demonstrated strength and professionalism during difficult times.
He also highlighted the significance of the upcoming Youm-e-Takbeer on May 28, describing it as a historic moment when Pakistan achieved an “impregnable defense” through its nuclear capability in 1998.
Shehbaz emphasized that Pakistan’s nuclear assets were solely intended for deterrence and defense purposes, adding that the country had earned global recognition as a responsible nuclear power.
The prime minister paid tribute to the figures associated with Pakistan’s nuclear program, including Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for initiating the program and Nawaz Sharif for overseeing its completion. He also acknowledged the contributions of scientists, politicians, and national institutions.
During the meeting, the prime minister also referred to the martyrdom of Liaquat from Attock, who lost his life after confronting a suicide bomber. He said the government had posthumously awarded him the Sitara-e-Shujaat in recognition of his sacrifice.
Members of the federal cabinet later offered prayers for victims of terrorism-related incidents across the country.