Islamabad (Newsman): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that recent political upheaval and protests have seriously damaged Pakistan’s economic stability and said that the country’s economy and national security are closely related.
At a security workshop held at the National Defence University on Thursday, the prime minister cited the harm inflicted by protestors, including a sharp drop in the stock market.
He emphasized that the nation was steadily progressing in the right direction despite setbacks and that the economy and national security must advance together.
PM Shehbaz said, acknowledging that the achievement resulted from collective effort. “First, congratulations to everyone, as our stock exchange has surpassed 100,000 points today.”
“This is not my success or the finance minister’s, but the hard work of the entire team.”
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He did point out that recent rallies and disturbances, including the storming of Islamabad, have resulted in economic repercussions.
He said, “Just two days ago, due to the unrest, the stock exchange lost 4,000 points. But it has now recovered and exceeded the 100,000-point mark.”
PM Shehbaz further described the acts of those inciting violence as attempts to sow disorder and warned of the growing threat posed by both external and local forces seeking to destabilize Pakistan.
He added, “Enemies of the state are working to spread hatred and instability. We must ensure the protection of Pakistan.”
The Prime Minister addressed the economic issue in Pakistan, pointing out that the nation was in danger of default in June 2023.
Pakistan managed to avoid default, by negotiating a 37-month deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He said Pakistan will not ask the IMF for more funding following the current arrangement.
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Although there are still issues, including the increase in terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, the prime minister emphasized that Pakistan’s development was proceeding as planned.
“Unfortunately, terrorism is resurging, and we are witnessing tragic incidents in K-P and Balochistan, but our armed forces continue to confront this threat bravely.”
“The nation has lost $130 billion in the war against terrorism,” he claimed.