ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif stated that he is actively working day and night on the diplomatic front to establish peace. He expressed that Pakistan is successfully addressing two main fronts.
While addressing the nation, the Prime Minister expressed that the country is striving to protect the region and friendly nations from a devastating war. He mentioned that he has had several discussions with the leaders of Iran and Gulf countries regarding this matter.
The Prime Minister clarified that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts are not merely an international obligation but are motivated by the best interests of the Muslim Ummah and the will of Allah. He further stated that regardless of one’s religion, the desire for peace lies in everyone’s heart.
Additionally, he addressed a proposal to increase the price of petrol by Rs 95 per litre and diesel by Rs 203 per litre, which he has rejected. The federal government has decided to absorb this burden, amounting to Rs 56 billion.
He said that a proposal has been made to increase the price of petrol by Rs 95 per litre and diesel by Rs 203 per litre, which I have rejected, and the federal government has once again decided to bear this burden itself, and its volume amounts to Rs 56 billion.
The Prime Minister announced that as a result of this decision, the government will bear the burden of another Rs56 billion to save the people from additional financial pressure.
The Prime Minister stated that, according to the global market, the price of petrol in Pakistan should be Rs544 per liter and the price of diesel should be Rs790 per liter. However, the government is currently providing petrol at Rs322 and diesel at Rs335 per liter.
He mentioned that in the last three weeks, the government has shouldered a burden of Rs125 billion to shield the people from the effects of inflation. These figures are not just numbers; they represent the government’s serious efforts to assist the public. The Prime Minister assured the nation that the government will continue to take steps to alleviate the difficulties faced by citizens, ensuring that no unnecessary burden is placed on anyone.
In his address to the nation, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the government has prioritized public relief over development projects, sacrificing the budget for the latter. He urged the entire nation to adopt a mindset of thrift and responsibility.
He stated that the substantial amount spent on providing relief could otherwise be allocated to significant development projects. However, the government considers the economic security of the people to be paramount in the current circumstances.
The Prime Minister appealed to the nation to make immediate and practical changes in their daily lives. He urged people to think carefully about the necessity of travel and to avoid using cars or motorcycles whenever possible. He clarified that practicing thrift is not merely optional; it is a collective national responsibility.
He noted that prices have doubled worldwide, with many countries facing severe difficulties and feeling helpless. Despite limited resources, Pakistan has managed to mitigate the impact of inflation on its citizens through timely measures. However, the government cannot tackle these challenges alone; the people must also cooperate.
The Prime Minister announced that the government will soon present a comprehensive plan aimed at addressing the current challenges, which will require the full cooperation of the public.
In conclusion, he expressed hope that, with Allah Almighty’s grace and the unity and cooperation of the nation, Pakistan will emerge victorious from these challenging times. He prayed for peace, honor, dignity, and success for the country.
The Prime Minister said in a determined manner that the morale of the nation is high and every difficulty can be overcome through joint struggle. Expressing his love for the homeland, he reiterated his resolve that Pakistan will emerge successfully from every challenge.
