Pakistan desires peace in region, stable relations with neighbours: PM Shehbaz

BEIJING (Dunya News) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Monday that Pakistan wanted peace and normal and stable relations with all its neighbours as “extremism and terrorism pose a serious threat to regional peace.”

Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, he said that China’s achievements were the result of President Xi Jinping’s wise and visionary leadership. Beijing’s global leadership was not only visible in the SCO but also in other initiatives, he added.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said Pakistan always believed in the power of multilateralism, dialogue and diplomacy. “Nothing is more important for any country than sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

He said Pakistan respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO members and neighbouring countries and abides by all international and bilateral agreements.

He highlighted the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) “which is the best project between the two countries.”

He emphasised Pakistan adherence to the UN and SCO charters and said Islamabad would continue to do so in the future.

He condemned Israel's unjustified aggression on Iran and called it unacceptable. He also condemned Israel’s genocide of Palestinians in Gaza and said Pakistan strongly supports the two-state solution approved by the UN.

TERRORISM IN BALOCHISTAN, KP

Prime Minister Shebaz said that there were evidences of foreign involvement in the terrorist attacks in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He also mentioned attack on Jaffar Express and warned those responsible for the heinous crimes and their facilitators “of severe punishment.”

The premier said Pakistan has made immense sacrifices in the war against terrorism.

“Pakistan has made sacrifices not only for itself, but for the entire region and the world. We have sacrificed more than 90,000 precious lives – mothers, children, engineers, doctors, scientists, citizens and officers.” 

TERRORISM FOR POLITICAL PURPOSES

Shehbaz said that some countries used terrorism for political purposes. The world no longer believed their narrative. “Pakistan wants to see peace in Afghanistan. Pakistan believes in dialogue and diplomacy. Pakistan respects all international and bilateral relations,” he continued.

The prime minister said that Pakistan was grappling with devastating floods due to global warming. The floods have caused severe damage to its infrastructure; standing crops and livestock were lost. “But the brave Pakistanis are engaged in relief and rehabilitation work.”

He commended the solidarity and cooperation shown by the international community, especially China, in this time of trial.

REGIONAL CONNECTIVITY

He said that “we have repeatedly emphasized how important it is to increase connectivity in the region. Reliable land, air and railway routes are needed for stable supply chains. I reiterate my commitment to uphold the high values of the Shanghai Spirit.

“I reiterate my unwavering commitment to the SCO Charter. I urge you that the journey ahead will be long and arduous. Sometimes the sun is shining, sometimes the cold winds will test our courage, patience and determination. Our goal is to enable us to withstand all difficulties.”

‘POSITIVE ECONOMIC INDICATORS’

The prime minister said that there has been a significant improvement in inflation and stock market in Pakistan. Current account is in surplus. “We are empowering our young generation, providing meaningful employment and positive opportunities to the youth.

He said Pakistan's economic transformation plan is based on three pillars. New investment in trade, infrastructure, agriculture, IT and mineral resources is the first pillar of economic transformation.

Encouraging research and innovation is the second pillar of economic transformation, and increasing revenues through comprehensive tax reforms is the third pillar, he added.

Premier Shehbaz expressed gratitude to the president and government of China for the wonderful hosting and comprehensive arrangements. I congratulate Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan on their Independence Day. The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) reflects Pakistan’s long-standing commitment to promoting regional cooperation and integration.