Saeed Chaudhry
Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday termed the ceasefire between Iran and Israel as a “welcome development,” lauding the Iranian people for showing exceptional courage and dignity during the conflict. He made these remarks during a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad.“The Iranian nation displayed great bravery and did not bow to any pressure. They insisted on a dignified ceasefire,” the Prime Minister said. He added that had the conflict continued, it could have triggered devastating consequences not only for the region but for the entire world.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Iran had openly expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s political and military leadership, as well as the Pakistani people, for standing in solidarity during the crisis. “Such heartfelt acknowledgment from Iran in today’s era is unprecedented,” he stated, naming President Asif Ali Zardari, Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir, political leaders, and the public as recipients of Iran’s gratitude.
The Prime Minister also revealed that a meeting took place between General Asim Munir and former U.S. President Donald Trump over lunch, during which Trump reportedly praised the Field Marshal by name. In another diplomatic development, General Munir held a 90-minute meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Istanbul.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that Pakistan had strongly condemned the attack on Qatar, calling the Gulf nation a “brotherly country.” He also acknowledged the key role of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in helping de-escalate the conflict. “I had a detailed telephone conversation with the Crown Prince, who also spoke with the Iranian President,” the Prime Minister disclosed.
Turning to domestic affairs, the Prime Minister praised the united front of coalition parties in supporting the national budget. “I am grateful to all allies including the PPP, MQM, and others who worked diligently and harmoniously to move things forward,” he said. He expressed satisfaction over the number of government lawmakers in the house and thanked President Asif Ali Zardari, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, and others for their cooperation.
Acknowledging the efforts of the economic team, PM Shehbaz thanked Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Deputy PM Ishaq Dar for their hard work in budget preparation. “After budget approval, we will focus on further stabilizing the economy in the new fiscal year,” he pledged.
Addressing security concerns ahead of the Islamic month of Muharram, the Prime Minister directed federal and provincial authorities to ensure peace and order. “This sacred month requires heightened efforts to protect religious gatherings and promote brotherhood and unity,” he said, instructing security enhancements across the country including in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to Pakistan’s security forces for their sacrifices in the ongoing fight against terrorism. “Our officers and soldiers are laying down their lives to eliminate the menace. God willing, we will win this war,” he stated. He specifically noted the military’s continued offensive against what he termed the “fitna of Khawarij.”
