Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expressed satisfaction over the successful passage of federal budget 2025-26, terming it as a testament to the harmony demonstrated by coalition partners and hailing the hard work of Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and his team.
Presiding federal cabinet meeting, the prime minister acknowledged the critical role played by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, President Asif Ali Zardari, and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. “Their cooperation was vital in preparing and passing a budget that lays the foundation for economic relief and continued development starting July 1,” he said.
Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the active participation of treasury members, noting their presence in Parliament was “satisfactory and responsible,” which enabled the smooth legislative process. The successful passage of federal budget was seen as a key step toward restoring public trust in the government’s economic direction.
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Iran-Israel ceasefire: Pakistan’s role applauded
Switching focus to global affairs, the premier announced that the Iran-Israel conflict had ended, with Tehran offering an “unprecedented” thank you to Pakistan for its diplomatic efforts. He revealed that Field Marshal Asim Munir met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi in Istanbul, reinforcing ties and paving the way for ceasefire negotiations.
“This is the first time in history that Iran has openly thanked Pakistan — including its political and military leadership, parties, and people,” Shehbaz said. He also credited President Zardari and himself among those who received direct messages of appreciation from Tehran.
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Adding a surprising twist, Shehbaz mentioned that Field Marshal Munir also met former U.S. President Donald Trump for a lunch meeting. “President Trump was deeply impressed by our Field Marshal, and it helped intensify global efforts to end the war,” he claimed.
The PM pointed out that Iran had responded in self-defense and was now ready to talk, as long as Israeli aggression ceases. Saudi Arabia’s emphatic denunciation of Israeli actions and direct communication with Iran’s leadership were also recognized as being pivotal to peace in the region.
Muharram security and sectarian unity
With the start of Muharram approaching, Prime Minister Shehbaz urged the public to maintain peace and demonstrate religious harmony. “This sacred month reminds us of the sacrifice of the Holy Prophet’s (PBUH) grandson. It is our shared duty to ensure peace during this period,” he said.
He added that Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had chaired a high-level meeting to finalize foolproof security arrangements for Muharram, covering all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
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Condemning recent attack on Qatar, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Gulf nation and reiterated Islamabad’s commitment to promoting regional peace.
Shehbaz Sharif stated that the new fiscal year will bring “concrete steps” aimed at stabilizing the economy. “Our mission is to provide genuine relief to the people and carry the development agenda forward—with unity at the core,” he added.
