PM vows to turn country into regional power hub

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed his determination to make Pakistan an economic powerhouse, urging the nation to demonstrate the same commitment, hard work, and resilience that once propelled the country to achieve nuclear capability.

While chairing a meeting of the federal cabinet, the prime minister underscored the need for unified national efforts to elevate the country’s economic standing, emphasizing that the journey would be long and challenging.

“Nations that commit to facing and overcoming their challenges are the ones that ultimately meet with success,” he remarked.

Paying tribute to the architects of the country’s defence and nuclear programme – late Zulfikar Ali Bhutto – the prime minister acknowledged the contribution of scientists, politicians, and institutions whose dedication made the country’s defence infrastructure impregnable.

READ MORE: PM Shehbaz says Pakistan emerged stronger after Marka-e-Haq

He stressed that the country’s nuclear deterrence was purely for defensive purposes and not intended for offensive action.

Highlighting the historical trajectory of the nuclear programme, the prime minister noted that former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto laid its foundation, while Nawaz Sharif later took it to fruition by conducting successful nuclear tests.

“History will always remember May 28 as the day Pakistan re-emerged as a nuclear power, blessed with strength that remains an enduring asset for our defence,” he said.

Turning to recent military achievements, the prime minister reflected on the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, against India last year, celebrated on May 10.

He described it as a landmark victory achieved through national unity and divine blessings, praising the armed forces for their courage and decisive action that taught adversaries a lasting lesson.

PM Sharif also commended the sacrifices of personnel in the ongoing fight against terrorism, asserting that Pakistan continues to make unparalleled efforts to eliminate militancy.

He lauded the collective efforts of his cabinet members over the past two years in driving economic progress despite significant challenges. The cabinet also offered fateha for the elevation of ranks of those martyred in the war against terrorism.

Addressing international developments, the premier noted the temporary US-Iran ceasefire, but warned that regional conflicts have created substantial economic hurdles for countries including Pakistan. The cabinet approved several key administrative and policy measures during the meeting.

Notably, a Cabinet Committee was formed to address challenges related to the buying and selling of wheat across the country.

The cabinet also approved recommendations from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony regarding the Hajj Policy 2027-2030, including an accountability system for private Hajj operators to safeguard pilgrims’ rights.

In another development, the federal cabinet approved the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control’s recommendation to entrust the Capital Development Authority (CDA) with the construction and development of a low-cost housing project for residents of Islamabad’s informal settlements in Farash Town.

Additionally, the Revenue Division’s proposal to have departmental promotion examinations for Pakistan Customs and other related officers conducted through the Federal Public Service Commission (FPSC) was approved.

The cabinet also ratified the decisions of the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases meeting held on April 29, 2026, while directing the Economic Coordination Committee to provide input on proposed amendments to the Tobacco Marketing Control Rules, 2016.

The meeting concluded with the prime minister reiterating the call for national cohesion, resilience, and steadfast commitment to both economic advancement and national defence.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026