PM Shehbaz: Civil-Military Leadership in Harmony on Key Issues

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the political and military leadership of the country share a consensus on vital matters, notably foreign policy, emphasizing a unified front.

Speaking in London, PM Shehbaz affirmed, “We engage in consultations on every matter. We are united in our objectives and are committed to earnest endeavors. Discussions regarding the economic landscape are also conducted regularly.”

He further expressed, “I aspire for sustained coordination and accord between the political echelons and institutions to enable Pakistan to not only recover from prior setbacks but also attain unprecedented accomplishments.”

Highlighting the robust collaborative dynamic between the civil and military authorities, the Prime Minister commended the army chief, remarking, “COAS Munir embodies true patriotism. His sole concern is Pakistan’s welfare. Under his command, the army and air force have achieved noteworthy milestones. He is a leader of vision and valor. We deliberate on all significant subjects and arrive at unified decisions, all dedicated to Pakistan’s advancement.”

Upon his return from a prominent diplomatic mission to the United States and Saudi Arabia, the premier addressed the Pakistan High Commission, noting that South Asia could have been embroiled in a significant conflict were it not for the mediation of US President Donald Trump.

He mentioned Pakistan’s nomination of Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his peacemaking efforts in the DRC, the Ethiopia-Egypt dispute, and ongoing initiatives to foster peace in Ukraine, acknowledging him as a “man of peace”.

Regarding the recently formalized Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) with Saudi Arabia, PM Shehbaz clarified that the accord is not aimed against any particular nation, emphasizing that Pakistan is focused on achieving economic success by harnessing its vast resources rather than engaging in power struggles.

He elaborated, “Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are fraternal nations, bound by enduring ties spanning decades. This agreement is not directed against any entity but serves to formalize these bonds. Every Muslim holds the sacred sites of Roza-e-Rasool and Makkah in reverence and is prepared to defend them.”

The Prime Minister reiterated that Pakistan is dedicated to attaining its economic ambitions by alleviating poverty and unemployment, and by leveraging its extensive potential in sectors such as agriculture, artificial intelligence, mines and minerals, and by empowering its youth through education and skill development.

Premier Shehbaz briefed the media on his successful visits to New York and Washington, particularly highlighting the meeting on the Gaza situation co-chaired by President Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, with participation from leaders of Pakistan, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Jordan, and Egypt.

He stated, “The discussions were promising, and I am optimistic that they will yield a favorable resolution for a Gaza ceasefire. Following the meeting, my expectations have grown significantly. President Trump’s remarks during our meeting in Washington were reassuring. I am hopeful that positive developments will soon emerge.”

Denouncing the unparalleled Israeli oppression and violence in Gaza, the Prime Minister underscored Pakistan’s firm advocacy for the people of Palestine and Kashmir, Pakistan’s water rights, and the Marka-e-Haq, where India suffered a defeat, during the UN General Assembly.

He declared, “By the grace of God, we emerged victorious in the war through the valor of our armed forces, who demonstrated extraordinary courage and expertise under the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir, who led from the front with unwavering determination,” emphasizing the nation’s steadfast support for its military.

He added that in the wake of Marka-e-Haq, the world acknowledges Pakistan as a nuclear power committed to defense and highly proficient in conventional warfare.

Referring to his productive meeting with President Trump, also attended by Field Marshal Munir, he indicated that Pakistan-US relations are being revitalized, focusing on trade, investment, oil and gas exploration, mines and minerals, IT, AI, and other sectors, with Trump pledging to expedite bilateral economic collaboration.

Addressing a query, the Prime Minister noted the resurgence of terrorism due to past policy missteps; however, law enforcement agencies are actively targeting terrorist havens, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Majeed Brigade, and other entities opposing Pakistan’s progress.

Expanding on the economy, the Prime Minister affirmed its macro-level stability, with ongoing efforts to stimulate growth, while also noting that recent floods have affected the country, causing casualties, injuries, and widespread destruction.

He concluded, “We must capitalize on the present opportunity as friendly nations, such as the Gulf states, Saudi Arabia, the US, and China, are willing to provide support. The conditions are conducive. Our only limitation is the will to act. If we possess this resolve, nothing can hinder our advancement.”