Ashraf AboArafe
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, describing development as “the most effective remedy against instability and conflict,” affirmed that his government was pursuing comprehensive reforms aimed at inclusive growth, institutional strengthening, and the empowerment of youth and women.
Addressing the inaugural session of the two-day Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference in Islamabad, the premier said Pakistan was not only implementing a bold reform agenda domestically but also working closely with international financial institutions and development partners to advance fiscal discipline, climate resilience, and investment facilitation — essential foundations for a resilient and prosperous future.
Hosted by the Senate of Pakistan, the conference brought together Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Secretary General Ek Nath Dakkar, parliamentarians, and heads of leading international organizations from friendly nations, to deliberate on the global theme of peace, security, and development.
Elaborating on his government’s initiatives, Sharif underlined efforts to expand small and medium enterprises, spur innovation, and enhance job creation — all crucial steps toward widening economic participation.
He reminded the gathering that Pakistan’s pursuit of peace has always been rooted in dialogue and diplomacy, forming the cornerstone of sustainable national and regional progress.
“The true value of peace,” he said, “is most profoundly understood when we are confronted with conflicts that continue to plague our world. Pakistan, too, has faced turbulence, yet we remain resolute in our quest to maintain peace and tranquility.”
Referring to India’s unprovoked aggression in May, the prime minister said Pakistan’s armed forces displayed exceptional readiness, swiftly and decisively defending the nation’s sovereignty.
“Having won the war, we now need to win peace — through sincerity and honest effort,” he emphasized.
Sharif noted that a peaceful Afghanistan remained vital for regional connectivity and prosperity. While acknowledging recent border incidents, he stressed that Pakistan continues to believe in a peaceful neighbourhood, lauding Turkey and Qatar for their facilitation of talks with the Afghan Taliban. He urged Kabul to act decisively against the TTP and other terrorist groups, emphasizing that lasting peace can only come through firm action against militancy.
Touching on the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) entering its second phase, the prime minister said Pakistan’s partnerships — whether with China, the European Union, the United States, Japan, or the Middle East — all stem from a shared vision of mutual prosperity and global cooperation.
Calling parliaments the “custodians of the people’s will,” Sharif urged legislators worldwide to honor their nations’ aspirations by collectively striving for peace, development, and security.
“My ultimate hope,” he concluded, “is that the peoples of all nations will stand united in promoting peace, advancing sustainable development, and strengthening collective security — so that together we may build a world anchored in lasting peace and shared prosperity.”
