ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reiterated his commitment to combating poverty, unemployment, and national debt, while vowing to eliminate terrorism from the country for good, declaring that Pakistan would “drown it in the Indian Ocean.”
Addressing members of the Qaumi Paigham-e-Aman Committee, a body comprising religious scholars from various sects, he acknowledged the resurgent threat of terrorism, exacerbated by a dangerous alliance between Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Tehreek-e-Taliban Afghanistan (TTA), with foreign powers providing crucial support.
“We will root out terrorism from Pakistan’s borders and consign it to the depths of the Indian Ocean,” he said, emphasising the importance of safeguarding religious freedom for all Pakistanis.
READ MORE: 13 Indian-backed terrorists killed in KP counter-terror operations: ISPR
The prime minister also reflected on the May 2025 victory against India, attributing the success to divine support, the courage of the Pakistan Army, and the collective prayers of the nation. He highlighted the defeat of Indian forces, led by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, as a significant milestone in Pakistan’s history.
PM Sharif paid tribute to the over 100,000 Pakistanis – including civilians, law enforcement officers, and military personnel – who lost their lives in the battle against terrorism.
He acknowledged that while terrorism remains a persistent threat, particularly due to foreign backing of extremist groups, Pakistan’s Armed Forces will once again rise to the challenge.
“The Pakistan Army has played a key role in defending the nation, teaching our enemies a lasting lesson,” Sharif said, praising the military’s efforts in securing the country’s sovereignty.
READ MORE: Terrorism to be defeated thru force: DG ISPR
He also stressed that Pakistan’s diverse religious communities must have the full right to practice their faith and celebrate their festivals without fear.
The prime minister further highlighted the nation’s vast, untapped resources, calling them unparalleled and central to Pakistan’s future prosperity.
“If we manage these resources wisely, all our challenges can be overcome,” he said.
Sharif also noted the critical role of the Qaumi Paigham-e-Aman Committee in strengthening national unity and fostering solidarity across communities.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s founding, he reminded the audience that the country was born through the sacrifices of millions of Muslims, as well as contributions from all communities, including minorities.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026