Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif Condemns May 9 Riots, Accuses Previous Government of Sabotaging Relations with China
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has accused the previous Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government of sabotaging Pakistan-China relations and halting the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He also termed the May 9 incident an "unforgivable sin."
Speaking at a press conference in London on Saturday, Sharif highlighted the dire state of Pakistan's economy when his government took charge, asserting that the country was on the verge of default. He credited Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir for his crucial efforts in securing a deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Sharif also demanded an immediate ceasefire in Palestine, condemning the “inhumane atrocities” being committed in Gaza. “As prime minister, I have raised Pakistan’s voice on the global stage,” he said referring to his speech at UN General Assembly last night.
Previous Government Destroyed Pak-China Relations, Halted CPEC: Sharif
Criticising his predecessors, the prime minister said, “The last government destroyed Pak-China relations and completely halted CPEC.” He added that the economic and diplomatic ties between the two nations are now being restored.
Sharif Defends Actions, Cites UK Agency Clearance
Addressing corruption allegations against him and his son, Shehbaz Sharif stated, “We were accused of corruption, but the British National Crime Agency (NCA) cleared us of all charges.”
Sharif also acknowledged the burden that has been placed on Pakistan's poor since independence, emphasising the need for reform. He shared details of his meeting with Bangladesh's Chief Organiser, Muhammad Yunus, during his New York visit.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Outlines Economic Priorities
On international relations, the prime minister said, “At the United Nations, I represented the Muslim Ummah strongly,” and added that the IMF is now satisfied with Pakistan's recent economic measures.
Sharif highlighted the role of the army chief and friendly countries, saying the government would expand Pakistan’s tax net and that the “elite must also make sacrifices”. He said that economic stability is not possible without political stability and his government was doing everything for the stability. “International organisations have acknowledged that Pakistan is now on the path to progress,” he added.
Sharif Vows to Increase Tax Base, Condemns Social Media Abuse of Armed Forces
He said: “We saved Pakistan from the brink of default and brought it back. The burden of extreme inflation in Pakistan is decreasing, and we are moving towards economic growth. The tax base needs to be increased; the common man has been sacrificing for 70 years, now it's time for the elite to sacrifice.”
He condemned campaign against the military leadership including Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on social media and hinted that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was behind it. He said the vulgar and abusive campaign was a manifestation of digital terrorism and reflected on how the PTI was going out of all limits to harm Pakistan. He said: “Filthy language is being used on social media against the Pakistan Armed Forces. We will not tolerate this.”
PM Shehbaz Sharif Addresses May 9 Riots, Says Perpetrators Must Apologize
Sharif made clear that those involved in attacking Pakistan Army last year on May 9 cannot be forgiven as they have committed crimes against the nation and their crimes are unpardonable. “Their attack on GHQ that day is shameful and an affront to the country’s martyrs. There will be no compromise on May 9. If the perpetrators are sorry they should apologize publicly to the nation.”
Sharif Highlights Crucial Role of Friendly Nations in Securing IMF Deal
He said: “Without the help of brotherly countries — Saudi Arabia, the UAE and China — the IMF programme wouldn’t have been possible. Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir made personal efforts for economic development and he played a big role in the revival of IMF plan. The army chief visited a brotherly country and discussed the IMF programme. I hope this will be the last IMF programme.”
Sharif Calls for Immediate Ceasefire in Palestine
He said: “At my UN address, I conveyed the voice of the Pakistani people to the world as the elected prime minister. We exposed inhumane atrocities being committed in Gaza. We condemn events in Lebanon, and called for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine. We want the immediate establishment of an independent state of Palestine is necessary. Palestinians should have representation at the UN.”
PM Shehbaz Sharif Speaks on Kashmir, Calls for Self-Determination
He added: “Kashmiris have been fighting for their freedom for a hundred years. Kashmiris should be granted the right to self-determination; Burhan Wani's name was mentioned at the UN.”
A Look at the Future of Pakistan
The prime minister's remarks come at a crucial time for Pakistan, which is grappling with a severe economic crisis. The IMF deal is seen as a lifeline for the country, but it comes with tough conditions that will require the government to implement unpopular reforms. It remains to be seen whether the government will be able to successfully navigate these challenges and achieve its goals of economic stability and progress.
The Road Ahead: A New Chapter for Pakistan?
The situation in Pakistan is complex and multifaceted, with a delicate balance between economic, political, and social factors. The government’s commitment to expanding the tax net and ensuring elite sacrifices will be crucial for achieving sustainable economic growth. The ongoing political tensions and social unrest will require careful management to ensure stability. Additionally, the relationship with China and the progress of CPEC will play a significant role in shaping the country's future.
As Pakistan navigates these challenges, the international community will be closely watching. The outcome of these developments will have a profound impact on the country’s trajectory and its place in the global order.
