Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the recent tragic incident in Balochistan, vowing to end the menace of terrorism.
Speaking at a National Committee meeting in Quetta, he remarked, "We are all grieved by the Balochistan incident. Terrorism, which has reemerged since 2018, will be crushed." Referring to the harrowing event on August 26, the Prime Minister stated, "Our enemies are external forces opposed to Pakistan's progress. We must remove obstacles to Balochistan's development."
PM Shehbaz also assured that the sacrifices of the security forces and civilians would not be in vain. He emphasized the federal government's collaboration with the Chief of Army Staff, Balochistan's Chief Minister, and other officials to restore peace.
"There is no doubt that, with the grace of the Higher Power, under the leadership of the Pakistan Armed Forces, the federal and provincial governments will overcome this challenge. We will crush the resurgence of terrorism across Pakistan and reclaim our lost standing," he asserted.
The Prime Minister further stressed the importance of adhering to the principles of Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal to guide the nation towards prosperity. "Today, we stand united with a firm resolve to eradicate terrorism once again, and, Insha'Allah, we will succeed," he concluded.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Army Chief Gen Asim Munir, Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, federal ministers, provincial ministers, assembly members, and relevant secretaries. The Prime Minister was briefed on recent terrorist incidents and the overall security situation.
Earlier, PM Shehbaz had arrived in Balochistan on a one-day visit to attend the Apex Committee meeting, where he was received by Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti, Speaker of the Provincial Assembly Abdul Quddus Bizenjo, and provincial ministers at the airport.
– PM Shehbaz upbeat about country's economic growth –
Earlier on Wednesday, PM Shehbaz had expressed optimism about Pakistan's economic trajectory, stating that he hoped the country's economy will continue moving in a positive direction.
According to details, during a review meeting on economic growth and investment held in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz expressed satisfaction with the progress, attributing the success to the efforts of his economic team. "By the grace of the Higher Power, the efforts of our economic team are reaping benefits," he remarked.
The premier acknowledged the Moody's recent upgrade of Pakistan's credit rating as an international endorsement of the government's economic policies.
Reflecting on the challenges faced in the previous government, the premier stated, "We sacrificed our politics for the sake of the country, saving the economy from default. Now, after achieving stability, the economy is on a path to growth. The positive impact of prioritizing national interests is becoming evident."
PM Shehbaz further underlined that the Moody's rating upgrade is a testament to the correctness of the government's economic policies.
He expressed optimism that the country's economy will continue to progress at this pace. He also praised the finance minister and his team for their commendable efforts in achieving this significant milestone.
PM Shehbaz noted the increasing interest in investment from friendly countries as a result of the government's sound policies.
He urged the ministers and relevant agencies to accelerate the implementation of proposed investment projects, underscoring that any delays would be unacceptable.