Addressing traders in Lahore, Shahbaz Sharif, the President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), emphasized the interconnection between economic and political stability, asserting that to foster economic growth, Pakistan must establish political stability. He stressed that if businesses thrive, the entire country will prosper.
Sharif reflected on the sacrifices made for state preservation, recalling the 16-month period during which his government worked diligently to safeguard the state. He underscored the importance of political sacrifices for the greater good, citing the challenging decisions made to secure the state, even if it meant compromising personal political interests.
He pointed out that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) negotiations, a crucial aspect of his tenure, were successfully navigated, ensuring the stability of the economy. He reminded the audience of the vision shared by Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister, who had envisioned a prosperous Pakistan. Crediting Nawaz Sharif’s policies, Shahbaz Sharif highlighted the success of initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), attracting substantial investments and transforming the economic landscape.
Reflecting on the 28th May nuclear tests in Pakistan, Shahbaz Sharif reminisced about the determination to recognize Pakistan’s strength, as evident in Nawaz Sharif’s declaration at Minar-e-Pakistan. He recalled Nawaz Sharif’s dedication, his instrumental role in the country’s economic progress, and the significant investments that followed, reaching up to $30 billion. These investments, according to Shahbaz Sharif, accelerated development projects across the nation.
Addressing the nation’s challenges, Shahbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of unity, emphasizing that divisive tactics only weaken the nation. He questioned the direction taken in the past four years, stating that instead of imparting wisdom and skills to the youth, divisive rhetoric prevailed. He advocated for empowering the youth through education and skills, asserting that laptops should replace AK-47s, symbolizing knowledge over conflict.
Shahbaz Sharif emphasized the need to welcome Nawaz Sharif with open arms, believing that his leadership would usher in an era of progress, economic justice, and the eradication of poverty. The speech underscored the PML-N’s vision for Pakistan – a vision grounded in stability, economic growth, and the wellbeing of the common people. The core message resonated: unity, education, and political stability are the keystones to a prosperous and harmonious Pakistan.
