Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif says constructive criticism on government policies by media is pivotal for better governance. Talking to a delegation of Pakistan Broadcasters’ Association, which called on him in Islamabad on Thursday, he said relationship between government and media is based on mutual trust.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of media as the fourth pillar of the state, welcoming constructive criticism and asserting that there is complete freedom of expression in the country. Discussing the economic situation, Sharif noted the government’s efforts to stabilize the economy and resume the journey of economic development and growth, which was halted in 2018.
He highlighted the URAAN Pakistan development program, prepared indigenously, and expressed optimism about its success with media and stakeholder cooperation. Reflecting on the past, Shehbaz Sharif mentioned the golden era of development under former Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif’s leadership and thanked friendly nations for their support in avoiding a default-like situation.
The Prime Minister attributed the recent reduction in inflation and interest rates to the hard work of the government’s economic team. He also discussed the positive impact of business-friendly policies on exports, agriculture, and industrial sectors. Reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue, including a faceless customs clearance system, were highlighted as measures to increase tax revenues and enhance transparency.
Shehbaz Sharif mentioned the government’s initiatives to curb smuggling of petroleum products, sugar, fertilizer, and flour, which have benefited the national exchequer. He also noted the increase in remittances as a sign of overseas Pakistanis’ confidence in government policies.
On foreign policy, the Prime Minister shared that relations with friendly countries are improving, with several diplomatic successes achieved. He expressed confidence in restoring Pakistan’s international image and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to eradicating terrorism alongside the armed forces.
Discussing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Sharif stated that the project is yielding benefits and reiterated the government’s commitment to its early completion. He expressed optimism about realizing the shared vision of a developed Pakistan and region, as envisioned by Nawaz Sharif and Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Addressing the political situation, the Prime Minister criticized a specific anti-Pakistan group for attempting to destabilize the federal capital, accusing them of being unable to accept Pakistan’s economic stability and development. He reiterated his party’s commitment to economic security over political gains.
The delegation praised the Prime Minister’s efforts in negotiating with Independent Power Producers to reduce electricity prices and urged the government to play a positive role in achieving political stability. Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Chairman Pakistan Broadcasters Association Mian Amir Mehmood, and others were present at the meeting.