Pakistan’s Economy Stabilising; ‘Those Hoping for Default Have Failed,’ Says Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan

By Farzana Chaudhry — Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Speaker Punjab Assembly Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has said that Pakistan has successfully defeated narratives predicting economic collapse, stressing that “those wishing for Pakistan’s default have failed.” He made these remarks while addressing a ceremony in honour of Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren during his visit to Khudian Khas, District Kasur.

The Speaker said the government has completed two years, and the positive outcomes of corrective economic measures are now evident nationwide. He added that the people have witnessed deliberate attempts to create chaos and unrest, but responsible leadership has put Pakistan “back on its feet.”

He emphasised that despite an externally imposed conflict, Pakistan’s armed forces and the nation have defeated terrorism with unwavering resolve. “Our Commander-in-Chief and soldiers are restoring peace across the country,” he stated.

Highlighting Pakistan’s enduring relations with China, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said the friendship is “eternal and time-tested.” He noted that more than 25 million children in Punjab are out of school, stressing that progress is impossible without education. He thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for approving an international-standard university in Kasur, and announced that the Kasur Motorway project is nearing completion, promising new employment and development opportunities.

The Speaker also confirmed the distribution of wheelchairs for underprivileged persons, requesting local representatives to submit lists of deserving individuals so government support reaches those truly in need.

Minister of State Malik Rasheed Ahmad Khan, addressing the ceremony, praised the event as a meaningful step towards deepening Pakistan–China relations. He said the friendship between the two nations spans over seven decades and remains “higher than the Himalayas and stronger than the Great Wall of China.” He thanked China for its consistent support in Pakistan’s defence, development, and economic stability.

Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren expressed gratitude for the warm welcome in Kasur, calling the city’s hospitality unforgettable. He said the people of Pakistan have further strengthened bilateral ties by proudly raising the flags of both nations. Zhao reaffirmed that military, development, and economic cooperation between Pakistan and China remains robust, adding that China will continue to stand with Pakistan across all sectors. He also appreciated the welfare initiatives launched by the Speaker, particularly the provision of wheelchairs to deserving individuals.

The Consul General concluded by emphasising that China–Pakistan friendship is not temporary but generational, rooted deeply in shared history and mutual respect.