Islamabad, December 24, 2024: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, addressing a federal cabinet meeting on Tuesday, underscored the government’s commitment to national unity and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering stance on its nuclear program. He emphasized that Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal is solely for deterrence and not for aggression, deeming recent U.S. sanctions on the National Development Complex (NDC) and other entities as “illogical.”
“The nuclear program is a source of pride and security for Pakistan’s 240 million people. It is a matter of national sovereignty, and no compromise will ever be made on it,” the prime minister stated.
During the meeting, PM Shehbaz also expressed hope for positive outcomes from the ongoing talks between the government coalition and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), initiated under the National Assembly Speaker’s leadership. He reiterated the need for all stakeholders to prioritize national interests over partisan differences to achieve peace, stability, and economic growth.
Highlighting recent economic progress, the prime minister pointed to a reduced policy rate of 13%, inflation below 5%, and rising exports and remittances. He warned, however, that sustaining such gains required unity and political stability.
Turning to security challenges, PM Shehbaz condemned recent acts of terrorism and pledged to continue the fight against militancy. He noted that 17 security personnel had been martyred in a recent attack, with eight terrorists eliminated by security forces. The cabinet observed Fateha for the martyrs.
Criticizing the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government for neglecting internal issues while focusing on political agitation, the prime minister stressed the need for coordinated action against terrorism and sectarian strife.
On foreign relations, he shared positive developments, including the easing of trade restrictions with Bangladesh and plans for enhanced bilateral engagements.
In closing, the prime minister called for collective efforts to ensure national unity, maintain economic progress, and safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and security.
