Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced that Pakistan is making sincere and vigorous efforts at the diplomatic level to mediate for peace in the region. In his address to the nation tonight, he emphasized Pakistan's commitment to safeguarding the region and brotherly Islamic countries from a devastating conflict and its adverse consequences. He asserted that sustainable peace can be achieved through collective consultation and wisdom.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister highlighted his detailed discussions with leaders from Iran and the Gulf countries on multiple occasions. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is actively engaged in these efforts, demonstrating full dedication and sincerity, while Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir plays a crucial role in the success of the reconciliation process.
On the economic front, Prime Minister Sharif addressed the extraordinary and challenging situation facing the global economy, noting that even major economies appear helpless. He remarked that developed countries, despite their abundant resources, are also grappling with severe economic crises.
The Prime Minister outlined immediate decisions taken by the Government of Pakistan to address these economic challenges. He mentioned a reduction of one hundred billion rupees in the development budget and a campaign of simplicity and austerity that has ensured maximum savings, redirecting billions of rupees to alleviate the economic burden on the common man.
Emphasizing the austerity drive to conserve fuel, the Prime Minister urged the public to travel only when absolutely necessary, highlighting that every litre of fuel saved aligns with the government's savings policies and sense of responsibility.
Shehbaz Sharif disclosed that he has rejected a proposal to increase petrol prices by ninety-five rupees per litre and diesel by two hundred and three rupees per litre, with the federal government deciding to bear this burden itself. He explained that the magnitude of this decision amounts to fifty-six billion rupees, which the government will absorb during the current week, sparing the public from this burden.
The Prime Minister concluded by stating that austerity is no longer optional but a collective responsibility. He urged the people to fully cooperate with the government's comprehensive plan, which will be announced in the coming days to address this challenging period.