PM Shehbaz Stresses National Consensus, Lauds COAS Asim Munir, and Confirms Revitalized Global Partnerships

Following his return from a high-level diplomatic tour of the United States and Saudi Arabia, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while speaking in London, affirmed that the country’s political and military leadership were “on the same page,” stressing consensus on all key issues, including foreign policy.

The Premier underscored the close working relationship between civil and military institutions, stating: “We consult on every issue. We are on one page and making sincere efforts [….] Mutual consultations are also held regarding the economic situation.”

Lauding the Army Chief and Institutional Harmony

The Prime Minister lauded the army chief, COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir, calling him “a true nationalist. He only cares for Pakistan.” PM Shehbaz continued: “Under his leadership, both the army and air force have achieved remarkable successes. He is a man of vision and bravery. We discuss all important matters and make decisions in unity. It’s all for Pakistan.”

He expressed his hope for future progress, praying “for this coordination and harmony among political leadership and institutions to make Pakistan not only overcome the past losses, but also reach new heights.”

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Diplomacy and the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA)

Referring to his “highly fruitful, productive” meeting with President Trump, also attended by Field Marshal Munir, PM Shehbaz confirmed that Pakistan-US relations were being revitalised, with discussions focusing on trade, investment, oil and gas exploration, mines and minerals, IT, AI, and other areas, as Trump also assured to accelerate the bilateral economic cooperation.

Speaking on international peace, the Premier asserted that South Asia would have witnessed a major war if not for the intervention of US President Donald Trump. He revealed that Pakistan had nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize for his peace efforts in DRC, Ethiopia-Egypt conflict, and ongoing efforts for peace in Ukraine, recognising him as a “man of peace.”

Regarding the recently signed Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement (SMDA) with Saudi Arabia, PM Shehbaz said that the pact is not against any other country, as Pakistan is not in any power struggle but is pursuing a focused approach to achieve economic prosperity by exploiting its immense resources. He emphasized that “Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are brotherly countries, bound by decades and centuries-old ties. This pact is against no one but a formalisation of these ties… Every Muslim has a belief and is ready to sacrifice his life to safeguard Roza-e-Rasool and Makkah.”

Commitment to Gaza Ceasefire and Marka-e-Haq

The Premier apprised the media of his “fruitful and successful” visits to New York and Washington, particularly the meeting on the Gaza situation co-chaired by President Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and attended by leaders from Pakistan, Qatar, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Jordan and Egypt.

PM Shehbaz expressed strong optimism regarding the outcome: “There was an encouraging discussion, and I’m confident that it will come up with a positive outcome for the Gaza ceasefire. After the meeting, my expectations have greatly risen [….] In our meeting in Washington, President Trump’s words were reassuring. Insha Allah, I hope you will hear good news very soon.”

Condemning the unprecedented Israeli oppression and killings in Gaza, the prime minister highlighted that at the UN General Assembly, Pakistan had effectively raised its voice in support of the people of Palestine and Kashmir, Pakistan’s water rights and also the Marka-e-Haq in which India had faced a humiliating defeat.

He paid tribute to the armed forces, stating: “We have won the war by grace of God through our brave armed forces, who fought with great courage and outstanding professional acumen, led by Field Marshal Asim Munir, who led from the front with an iron-clad resolve,” noting the nation’s full support. He added that after Marka-e-Haq, the world has recognised that Pakistan, while a nuclear power solely for defence purposes, was also highly skilled in conventional warfare.

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Economic Strategy and Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The Prime Minister stated that the economy had stabilised at the macro level while the efforts were underway to achieve growth. He acknowledged that terrorism had sprung back consequent to the imprudent decisions made in the past; however, the law enforcement agencies were targeting the havens of terrorists, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), Majeed Brigade, and other foreign elements opposing Pakistan’s prosperity.

He reiterated that without indulging in any power struggle, Pakistan is striving to achieve its economic goals by addressing poverty, unemployment and exploiting immense potential in agriculture, artificial intelligence, mines and minerals as well as youth bulge by providing them education and skill training.

In conclusion, he urged the nation to capitalize on global goodwill, noting that “friendly countries are willing to support, like the Gulf states, Saudi Arabia, the US and China. There can be no better conditions.” He concluded: “Now all up to us. The only thing we lack is the will to do. If we have this will, no one can impede our progress.”

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