LONDON; Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed that Pakistan’s political and military leadership are working in close coordination on all major issues, including foreign policy and the economy.
Speaking at the Pakistan High Commission in London, following his high-level visits to the United States and Saudi Arabia, the premier said, “We consult on every matter. We are on one page and making sincere efforts for Pakistan.
Mutual consultations also cover the economic situation.” He prayed for continued harmony among institutions to help the country recover from past losses and move towards progress.
The prime minister lauded Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, calling him a “true nationalist who cares only for Pakistan.” He credited COAS Munir for remarkable achievements of the armed forces, noting that under his leadership, both the army and air force had registered significant successes.
“He is a man of vision and bravery. We discuss all important matters and make united decisions—all for Pakistan,” Shehbaz said.
Highlighting diplomacy, the prime minister stated that US President Donald Trump had played a vital role in preventing a major war in South Asia. He revealed that Pakistan had even nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize due to his efforts for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Ethiopia-Egypt conflict, and the Ukraine crisis.
Regarding ties with Saudi Arabia, PM Shehbaz said the recently signed Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) was not directed against any country. Rather, it formalised the brotherly ties between Riyadh and Islamabad.
“We are not part of any power struggle. Pakistan is focused on economic growth by harnessing its natural resources. Every Muslim is ready to sacrifice for the sanctity of Roza-e-Rasool (PBUH) and Makkah,” he added.
He emphasised Pakistan’s strategy of addressing unemployment, poverty, and economic challenges through investments in agriculture, artificial intelligence, mineral resources, and youth training.
On his US visit, he described his meetings as “fruitful and successful,” particularly a Gaza-focused session co-chaired by President Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, attended by leaders from several Muslim countries. Shehbaz expressed hope for a positive breakthrough towards a Gaza ceasefire, saying Trump’s reassurances were “encouraging.”
Condemning Israeli aggression in Gaza, the premier said Pakistan had raised its voice at the UN General Assembly for Palestine, Kashmir, water rights, and during the Marka-e-Haq, where India faced a humiliating defeat.
He praised the armed forces for their professionalism under Field Marshal Asim Munir’s leadership, stressing that Pakistan had proven itself not only as a nuclear power but also as a skilled conventional military force.
Shehbaz also underlined that Pakistan-US ties were being revitalised, with Trump assuring support for cooperation in trade, energy, technology, and minerals. On security, he acknowledged the resurgence of terrorism due to past mistakes but said agencies were targeting groups like TTP, BLA, and other hostile elements.
Addressing economic challenges, he noted that while macroeconomic stability had been achieved, growth remained the next goal. He highlighted recent devastating floods that killed over 1,000 people and displaced thousands, urging Pakistan to seize the support being offered by Gulf states, the US, and China.
“The conditions are ideal; only our willpower matters. If we have determination, nothing can block Pakistan’s progress,” he concluded.
