Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a press conference in London on Saturday, credited Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir for his crucial role in securing Pakistan’s deal with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
He praised General Munir for his tireless efforts and diplomatic visits to allied nations, which paved the way for the IMF agreement, providing much-needed economic relief to the country. Sharif emphasized that the improvement in Pakistan’s economy would not have been possible without General Munir’s involvement.
The Prime Minister also expressed his gratitude to key allies, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China, for their significant contributions in finalizing the financial package, which was critical in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy. Their support, Sharif noted, played a major role in boosting investor confidence and ensuring economic stability.
Sharif also condemned the recent social media campaigns targeting Pakistan’s armed forces and martyrs. He labeled these actions as “unacceptable and disgraceful” and reminded the public of the sacrifices made by the military for the safety and stability of the country. He stressed that attacking the military undermines its efforts and disrespects the sacrifices of those who gave their lives for the nation.
The Prime Minister also discussed pressing international issues, particularly the escalating violence in Gaza and Lebanon. He called for an immediate ceasefire and reiterated Pakistan’s support for an independent Palestinian state, stressing the need for proper representation in the United Nations.
Sharif shared details of his recent meetings with various global leaders, including Dr. Yunus of Bangladesh, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan. He conveyed the concerns of the Pakistani people on global issues and emphasized the importance of international cooperation to address these challenges effectively.