Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a Federal Cabinet meeting today, addressing critical issues concerning national security, regional peace, and economic stability.
Addressing Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts, the Prime Minister emphasized that Afghan authorities must make sincere and tangible efforts to address Pakistan’s legitimate security concerns for any durable ceasefire to be sustained.
He recalled that Pakistan had agreed to the interim 48-hour ceasefire upon Afghanistan’s request, stating: “The ball is now in Kabul’s court to decide the matter peacefully.” The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s readiness for dialogue, but stressed that retaliatory action was necessary given the continuous terrorist activities operated from Afghan soil, which have resulted in the killing of innocent civilians and security personnel. He noted that diplomatic channels had been utilized to convey these concerns, regrettably to no avail.
#WATCH: PM Sharif says Pakistan has decided to hold 48-hour temporary ceasefire at Afghanistan’s request, adding that “the ball is now in their court” if Afghan Taliban want to resolve bilateral issues peacefully. https://t.co/CoMEROOQsV pic.twitter.com/O0tRWwjFrY
— Arab News Pakistan (@arabnewspk) October 16, 2025
On the international front, Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged the significant achievement of halting bloodshed and hostilities in Gaza. He commended the strenuous efforts of all countries involved, including US President Donald Trump, Pakistan, Turkiye, and Qatar, for securing the peace deal.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to international justice, the Prime Minister stated that Pakistan will continue to unequivocally support the people of Palestine and Kashmir in their pursuit of their fundamental rights.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to commend his economic team for successfully securing the Staff Level Agreement (SLA) with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Stressing the imperative need for Pakistan to become economically strong and stable, he issued a clear directive to his team and the nation, stating that this must be the last programme for the country, signalling a strong commitment to sustainable economic reform and self-reliance.
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