PM Shehbaz Archives - Page 2 of 3

PM Shehbaz chairs meeting to finalize strategy for boosting Pakistan’s exports

May 11, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to review a policy framework aimed at increasing Pakistan’s exports, with participants presenting recommendations and suggestions to strengthen the country’s export sector.

During the meeting, the prime minister emphasized that export-oriented industries are essential for achieving Pakistan’s long-term economic development goals.

He said the government is focused on expanding exports and providing greater facilitation to industries, directing officials to formulate a comprehensive plan to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and industrial units to enhance export performance.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also called for a strategy to promote new businesses and industries that can contribute to higher exports and diversify Pakistan’s export base.

He stressed that investment in research and development (R&D) and innovation within the industrial and commercial sectors would improve Pakistan’s competitiveness in global markets.

Separately, members of the Senate of Pakistan discussed the economic impact of recent regional tensions and measures needed to reduce government expenditures and stabilize the economy.

Senator Mohsin Aziz said Pakistan’s exports had declined by $4 billion, adding that citizens currently hold Rs 38 trillion in bank deposits, with Rs 18 trillion shifted from businesses into banks.

He further noted that electricity and gas prices have doubled, while circular debt continues to rise despite the increase in utility tariffs.

Marka-e-Haq is day of gratitude, national resolve, says PM Shehbaz

May 9, 2026 by Newsdesk

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Marka-e-Haq is a day to offer gratitude to Almighty Allah for His countless blessings and favors, as the nation marks one year since the military operation.

In his message, the prime minister said the day serves as a reminder of the determination, courage and steadfastness demonstrated by Pakistan during a critical moment, adding that the country inflicted a decisive defeat on its adversary.

He paid tribute to the martyrs, their families and the veterans who stood like a “wall of steel” in defense of the homeland.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said the coordinated and synchronized response of Pakistan’s armed forces across land, sea, air and cyber domains established the country as an unconquerable force.

He said Marka-e-Haq stands as clear evidence that the Pakistani nation is peace-loving, yet brave, dignified and resolute, and cannot be intimidated or forced to bow before aggression.

The prime minister said the operation has become a historic milestone in which Pakistan gained a decisive advantage in response to what he described as unprovoked aggression, shattering the enemy’s perception of invincibility.

He praised Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir for his courageous leadership, and also commended Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Admiral Naveed Ashraf for their strategic direction.

Prime Minister Shehbaz saluted the officers and personnel of Pakistan’s armed forces, saying their professionalism and the unwavering support of the nation opened a new chapter in Pakistan’s strategic history.

He said Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to peace while restoring strategic balance and fully safeguarding its security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The prime minister warned that any attempt to weaken Pakistan or launch aggression against the country would be met with an immediate, effective and comprehensive response.

He also reiterated Pakistan’s determination to eliminate terrorism and continue efforts to bring all militant threats to their logical conclusion.

On the issue of Kashmir, Prime Minister Shehbaz said sustainable strategic stability in South Asia is not possible without a resolution of the dispute in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support for the Kashmiri people’s right to freedom and self-determination.

The prime minister said Pakistan is increasingly recognized as a responsible state that possesses strong defensive capabilities and is playing an important role in promoting global peace and stability.

He noted that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran have been widely appreciated by the international community.

Concluding his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz called on the nation to renew its pledge to honor the sacrifices of the martyrs and continue working selflessly for the strength, dignity and prosperity of Pakistan.

PM Shehbaz calls for swift activation of PVARA to boost digital economy

May 1, 2026 by Newsdesk

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Minister of State and Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority Bilal Bin Saqib to discuss the development of the country’s digital economy.

During the meeting, the prime minister directed that an effective, globally aligned regulatory system for virtual assets be made fully operational at the earliest to enhance investor confidence and promote growth in Pakistan’s digital economy.

He emphasized the need for special initiatives to train youth in modern technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence and digital finance, to equip the workforce with skills required for the future.

Bilal Bin Saqib briefed the prime minister on the transition of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority into a fully operational regulator, as well as the launch of a regulatory sandbox.

The briefing highlighted ongoing innovation in areas such as AI-powered payments and regulated virtual asset services.

It was also noted that efforts are underway to prepare national institutions, human resources, and regulatory frameworks for the next wave of economic transformation.

PM Shehbaz forms committee on One Constitution Avenue case

May 1, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has constituted a committee to review the One Constitution Avenue case and directed the Islamabad administration to suspend any action until a final decision is reached.

According to an official statement, the committee will be headed by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, with Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, the Cabinet Secretary, and the Commerce Secretary as members.

The committee has been tasked with submitting its report within one week. It will hear all stakeholders and affected parties without discrimination, allowing them to present their concerns before reaching conclusions.

Meanwhile, Talal Chaudhry stated that legal violations had occurred in the One Constitution Avenue project. He reiterated that the government remains committed to eliminating encroachments and illegal constructions, adding that the law applies equally to all.

He said the company that acquired the lease for the project violated its terms, noting that the land had originally been leased to three companies for hotel development purposes.

However, around 250 residential apartments were allegedly constructed in violation of the agreement.

Chaudhry further revealed that the plot was auctioned in 2005 and financed through bank loans, but the group later defaulted and went bankrupt.

The matter was subsequently taken up by the National Accountability Bureau, where commitments were made to compensate through commercial properties despite lacking legal grounds.

He added that the Capital Development Authority had clearly stipulated that the land could only be used for hotel purposes. The lease agreement was eventually cancelled in 2016 after CDA took control of the project.

Talal Chaudhry also noted that the case was reviewed by the Public Accounts Committee in 2014 and later referred for investigation, while court proceedings including those during the tenure of former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar also examined the matter.

Officials maintained that the property is currently under CDA control and that further action will proceed in accordance with the law once the committee submits its findings.

PM Shehbaz allows spectators for all PSL 11 playoff matches

April 27, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has granted permission for spectators to attend all three playoff matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11.

According to a statement issued by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on X, fans will now be allowed to enter stadiums for playoff fixtures scheduled in Karachi and Lahore.

Just had a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and I’m pleased to share that we have secured his approval for public attendance in all three PSL playoff matches as well.

However, this comes with an important condition from his side that fans are strongly encouraged to… pic.twitter.com/SXtyhrIBpF
— Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) April 27, 2026

Mohsin Naqvi further stated that the Prime Minister has directed spectators to use public transport when traveling to stadiums to ensure smooth arrangements and avoid congestion.

Earlier, the Prime Minister had approved spectator entry for the PSL 11 final. The latest decision extends this permission to all playoff matches.

Prior to this, Mohsin Naqvi also met the Prime Minister to discuss the overall security situation and arrangements for fan attendance during PSL matches. The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over security measures in place during the ongoing regional diplomatic developments.

The playoff stage begins tomorrow, with Peshawar Zalmi set to face Islamabad United in the Qualifier in Karachi. The first Eliminator will be played in Lahore between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Multan Sultans, followed by the second Eliminator on May 1 at the same venue.

The grand final of PSL 11 is scheduled for May 3 at Gaddafi Stadium.

PM Shehbaz, Ishaq Dar review regional security after Araghchi call

April 24, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Following a telephone call from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on his discussions and the latest diplomatic developments.

During the meeting, the two leaders reviewed the regional security situation and concerns over rising tensions, while also holding detailed discussions on the expected second round of talks between the United States and Iran.

Ishaq Dar apprised the prime minister of ongoing diplomatic efforts, including Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the two sides. Shehbaz Sharif described the expected arrival of the Iranian delegation as a significant diplomatic development.

Both leaders agreed to closely monitor the evolving situation, with the prime minister issuing key policy and diplomatic directives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.

Shehbaz Sharif also directed that high-level diplomatic engagements be intensified and consultations continue, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to de-escalation, confidence-building, and advancing the negotiation process.

PM Shehbaz directs acceleration of development projects through PPP

April 21, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to fast-track development projects across the country through enhanced use of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

The directive came during a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister to review progress and reforms in the PPP framework. Key decisions were taken to improve efficiency and coordination within the system.

The meeting granted in-principle approval to further streamline the Public Private Partnership Authority and integrate its structure more effectively.

It was also decided that the authority will operate under the Privatization Division to align its performance with modern requirements and accelerate project execution.

The prime minister instructed relevant ministries and departments to strengthen their capacity for initiating and managing development projects under the PPP model.

He further directed that such projects should be made part of institutional Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure accountability and progress.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that reforms through P3A aim to make the PPP system more transparent and efficient, enabling faster delivery of infrastructure and development initiatives.

During the meeting, officials presented a comparative analysis of PPP models adopted in various countries, along with a briefing on the proposed new framework. It was informed that under the revised structure, P3A will be overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Privatization and the Privatization Division.

The prime minister directed authorities to expedite implementation of the newly approved system.

PM Shehbaz approves Rs 32.12 per litre reduction in diesel price

April 17, 2026 by Newsdesk

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a reduction of Rs 32.12 per litre in the price of diesel, providing relief to consumers.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the price of diesel has been reduced from Rs 385.54 per litre to Rs 353.43 per litre following the approval.

The prime minister said that the impact of the reduction in petroleum prices will be passed on to the public as quickly as possible.

Sources in the Petroleum Division said that it has been decided to keep petrol prices unchanged for now.

PM Shehbaz arrives in Antalya for third phase of peace mission

April 16, 2026 by Newsdesk

Antalya: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in the Turkish city of Antalya as part of the third phase of Pakistan’s ongoing peace mission.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Antalya Governor Hulusi Şahin warmly received the premier and the Pakistani delegation at the airport.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to Türkiye Yousaf Junaid and other senior diplomatic officials were also present on the occasion.

The prime minister is scheduled to attend the fifth Antalya Diplomacy Forum, where he will participate in the “Leaders Panel” and present Pakistan’s perspective on key regional and global issues.

On the sidelines of the forum, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to hold bilateral meetings with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and other world leaders.

The Pakistani delegation accompanying the prime minister includes Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi, and spokesperson for international media Musharraf Zaidi.

Earlier, during his visit to Qatar, the prime minister met Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, where both sides discussed the regional situation and emphasized the importance of de-escalation and dialogue for peace and stability.

The premier also condemned recent attacks on Qatar and other Gulf countries.

In the first phase of his peace mission, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held talks in Jeddah with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, briefing him on developments related to US-Iran ceasefire efforts and Islamabad negotiations. The Saudi leadership appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting peace in the region.

PM Shehbaz meets Saudi Crown Prince, discusses regional stability and bilateral ties

April 15, 2026 by Newsdesk

Jeddah: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a high-level meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where both leaders discussed the evolving regional situation and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on ongoing Iran–U.S. negotiations and emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the region.

Both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia expressed their resolve to further deepen cooperation across political, economic, and strategic domains.

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar was also present during the meeting, reflecting the significance of the engagement.

Prime Minister Sharif arrived in Jeddah on an official visit, accompanied by a high-level delegation. Upon arrival, he was warmly received by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malki, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmed Farooq.

According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the visit underscores Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing its longstanding partnership with Saudi Arabia and coordinating closely on key regional and international issues.