Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the government and the media have a relationship of mutual trust and added that constructive criticism of government policies by the media is very important for improving governance. The prime minister said this in a meeting with a delegation of Pakistan Broadcasters Association. He asserted that the government welcomed constructive criticism from the media and believed it to be the fourth pillar of the state, stressing that there was complete freedom of expression in Pakistan. He further spoke about the ‘Uranium Pakistan’ project, calling it a locally developed national development program and asserted that the government in collaboration with the media and all stakeholders will ensure that the project is successful. Discussing the country’s economic recovery, the prime minister praised the current economic team for significant achievements, including reductions in inflation and interest rates, increases in exports and progress in industrial and agricultural development. “Pakistan’s growth has resumed where it was halted in 2018,” he noted, attributing the recovery to pro-business policies and reforms. “Even today, after economic stability under Nawaz Sharif’s rule, the journey of development continues with vigor.” Shehbaz expressed gratitude to friendly nations for their support, which he said helped Pakistan avoid insolvency and return to the path of economic growth. He admitted that the increase in remittances is a sign of the confidence of overseas Pakistanis in the government’s policies. Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted the ongoing reforms in the Federal Bureau of Revenue (FBR), including its rapid digitization and introduction of an anonymous rating system aimed at improving the customs system, increasing revenue and eliminating corruption. He noted that measures to curb the smuggling of key commodities such as petroleum products, sugar and fertilizers have significantly benefited the exchequer. On the diplomatic front, the prime minister emphasized on strengthening Pakistan’s relations with friendly countries and reviving its global image. “By the grace of Allah, Pakistan has regained its position on the international stage,” he said. He also touched on the progress of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and described it as the cornerstone of regional development. “The fruits of CPEC are becoming visible and the dream of development envisioned by Nawaz Sharif and the Chinese President is nearing realization,” he noted. He added that the government is working day and night for the early completion of CPEC projects. The Prime Minister reiterated the nation’s commitment to eradicate terrorism and paid tribute to the sacrifices of the armed forces and citizens. “We will continue to fight this scourge until it is completely removed from the country,” he promised. The Prime Minister noted that Islamabad has been repeatedly attacked by a special group of anti-nationals who are determined to bankrupt Pakistan economically. He added that it is difficult for such elements to digest the economic stability and development of the country. Shehbaz also hailed Pakistan’s youth as the nation’s greatest wealth and emphasized the importance of providing them with education, training facilities and equal opportunities internationally. He expressed hope that the media would continue to play a positive role in Pakistan’s governance and development. The PBA delegation assured the Prime Minister of their continued cooperation in promoting the progress and prosperity of the country.
