Addressing the nation from Lahore, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif praised Pakistan’s proactive stance amid global economic turmoil and regional tensions, declaring that the country is shouldering a heavy responsibility on both diplomatic and economic fronts.
In his televised speech, the Prime Minister stated: “Pakistan is playing an important role with great responsibility on two fronts. On one side we are protecting our national interests and the people of Pakistan are trying their best to save themselves from an increase in oil prices on global markets. On another side we have been working day and night for peace… Pakistan has put a lot of effort to protect its people so that the Muslim ummah can overcome this devastating war and get rid of its negative effects.”
The address comes as international oil prices have surged sharply due to escalating conflicts involving Iran and other Gulf nations. PM Sharif revealed that Pakistan has engaged in intensive diplomacy with Iran and Gulf countries to de-escalate tensions and promote peace. He commended Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their tireless efforts in these initiatives.
On the domestic front, the government has taken decisive steps to shield citizens from the fallout. Despite global benchmarks pushing petrol to Rs 544 per litre and diesel to Rs 790, Pakistan has held prices at Rs 322 and Rs 335 respectively this week. The Prime Minister announced that the government will absorb an additional burden of over Rs 56 billion this week — part of a total Rs 125 billion relief package rolled out in the past three weeks through austerity measures and efficiency drives.
“By Allah’s grace, we have already started preparation for this storm,” he said, urging citizens to adopt simplicity, reduce unnecessary travel, and support national efforts. He stressed that the government alone cannot succeed and called for collective responsibility to steer Pakistan through these challenging times.
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