Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday emphasized prioritizing the country’s peace and progress over protests and sit-ins. He addressed the National Action Plan (NAP) apex committee meeting while the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepared for a long march to Islamabad on November 24.
“We need to decide whether to stage sit-ins or work for the country’s progress,” the prime minister said, questioning the rationale behind the planned protest.
Economy on the Path to Stability
PM Shehbaz highlighted the gradual stabilization of Pakistan’s economy, crediting the collective efforts of the federation, provinces, institutions, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.
“Political and economic stability are interconnected,” he said. He urged all stakeholders to play their role in improving the economy, emphasizing that stability is vital for Pakistan’s prosperity.
The premier expressed gratitude to all provinces for supporting the federal government in securing the $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout package.
Focus on Countering Terrorism
Reaffirming his government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism, PM Shehbaz described it as the biggest challenge facing the nation.
“We must crush terrorist elements for the peace and progress of Pakistan,” he declared.
He voiced concerns over the rise in terror attacks, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and recalled the successful eradication of terrorism in 2018 under Nawaz Sharif’s leadership.
Positive Economic Indicators
The prime minister expressed satisfaction over improved economic indicators. He noted historic milestones, including:
- The stock exchange reaching record levels.
- Inflation dropping to single digits.
- A reduction in the policy rate from 22% to 15%.
He also mentioned significant growth in IT exports and remittances. Efforts are ongoing to expand the tax base and address leakages and tax evasion to free Pakistan from its debt burden.
Pakistani Rupee Marginally Declines Against US Dollar
High-Level Security Meeting
The NAP apex committee meeting, chaired by PM Shehbaz, brought together top civilian and military leadership, including provincial chief ministers, the army chief, intelligence chiefs, and federal ministers. The gathering discussed the security situation amid a surge in terror attacks.
The prime minister stressed the need for unity to ensure development and stability in the country.
PTI’s Demands Raised in Meeting
Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Information, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, confirmed that PTI’s demands, including their planned “do-or-die” protest, were tabled during the meeting.
Speaking on Geo News, Barrister Saif revealed that PTI’s CM Gandapur underscored the ongoing tensions between the PTI, the establishment, and the government, calling the situation detrimental to all parties involved.
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