Prime Minister Reaffirms Resolve to Eliminate Terrorism, Poverty and Debt in Meeting with National Peace Committee

Islamabad |
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed his government’s resolve to eradicate poverty, unemployment and terrorism, and to steer Pakistan out of debt, stressing that national unity and cohesion were more critical now than ever before.
Speaking during a meeting with members of the National Message of Peace Committee, the prime minister said terrorism had once again raised its head in the country and warned of a nexus between extremist groups, including the TTP and TTA, which he said were being provided resources by Pakistan’s enemies. “We will uproot terrorism from Pakistan’s soil and drown it in the Indian Ocean,” he declared.

Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had paid a heavy price in the fight against terrorism, with more than 100,000 Pakistanis — including civilians, women, children, professionals and security personnel — having laid down their lives. He paid tribute to the armed forces, police and law enforcement agencies for their sacrifices, saying their efforts had not only protected Pakistan but also contributed to regional and global security.
The prime minister underlined that Pakistan was founded on the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, following immense sacrifices by Muslims and contributions from minority communities. He stressed that all citizens, regardless of faith, had the right to practise their religion freely and celebrate their festivals, and that merit and hard work should determine progress in society.
Highlighting Pakistan’s economic challenges, Shehbaz Sharif said the country possessed vast natural resources worth trillions of dollars, which, if utilised effectively, could help eliminate poverty and unemployment and transform Pakistan into a true welfare state. He acknowledged that the task of economic recovery and debt reduction was difficult but achievable with the right policies and adherence to the country’s founding principles.
Referring to recent military developments, the prime minister said Pakistan’s armed forces had demonstrated exceptional professionalism and resolve, adding that national security and economic stability were closely linked.
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and other senior officials were also present at the meeting.
National Peace Committee Convener Maulana Tahir Ashrafi welcomed the government’s confidence in the committee and said religious scholars from all schools of thought would play a frontline role in countering extremist narratives and promoting peace. He announced plans for consultations and conferences across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other regions to address grievances and strengthen harmony.
Religious leaders and representatives of minority communities attending the meeting expressed their support for the government’s peace and counter-terrorism efforts, reiterating their commitment to national unity, interfaith harmony and the promotion of a collective narrative against extremism.
The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge by political, religious and community leaders to work together to safeguard Pakistan’s peace, stability and future.