ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again extended an invitation to the opposition to engage in dialogue aimed at developing a “Charter of Democracy” and a “Charter of Economy,” stressing that political differences should not block national progress.
Speaking during a National Assembly budget session, the prime minister said that opposition members are like “brothers” and there is no enmity with them. He reiterated that he has repeatedly urged all political stakeholders to come together and move forward on key national agreements related to governance and economic stability. He added that he remains ready for talks and believes it is not too late to begin constructive engagement.
Referring to a recent speech by opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, the prime minister said he had listened carefully but would respond in detail at an appropriate time.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that all members of parliament are respected representatives of the people, elected from across Pakistan’s four provinces, and that diverse political views are part of a democratic system.
He stressed that strengthening Pakistan is a shared responsibility, saying that “Pakistan comes first” and that the survival and stability of the country must remain a collective priority. He also highlighted that financial resources for provinces are their constitutional right.
The prime minister noted that under the National Finance Commission (NFC) arrangements, Balochistan’s share has been significantly increased, describing it as a collective decision involving all provinces rather than a unilateral concession. He said Punjab had contributed the most to this arrangement and added that agricultural farmers in Balochistan have also been provided with solar panels worth billions of rupees.
Addressing broader governance concerns, he said equitable development across all provinces is essential for national cohesion, adding that fairness is necessary for any system to function properly.
On security issues, the prime minister referred to recent sacrifices by military personnel, including officers and soldiers killed in a helicopter incident, and said that terrorism continues to be a serious challenge in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He alleged external support for militant elements and noted ongoing infrastructure development projects, including a major highway project in Balochistan involving hundreds of billions of rupees.
He concluded by paying tribute to those killed in the fight against terrorism, saying their sacrifices protect millions of children from becoming orphans, and urged national unity and respect for martyrs.
