PM Shehbaz’s farewell address highlights sacrifice, unity and resilience

ISLAMABAD: In a poignant farewell address delivered in the National Assembly, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif expressed gratitude to members of various parties who had placed their trust in him during his tenure.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks to those esteemed colleagues who bestowed their confidence upon me,” remarked the prime minister. “I am forever grateful for the opportunity to serve as the prime minister.”

He reflected on the succinct 16-month duration of his government, acknowledging the multitude of challenges faced and difficulties encountered during this period.

“These past 16 months have been marked by a series of formidable challenges that came our way,” he stated.

Attributing the weight of previous government’s failures to his administration, Prime Minister Sharif acknowledged the burden of the past and the consequent hurdles that had to be navigated.

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“I am thankful to this august house and those who trusted me with the position,” Sharif remarked.

“In the face of extremely testing circumstances, leaders from all parties came together to address the challenges that presented themselves.”

Highlighting the devastation caused by floods, he noted that Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa suffered substantial damage.

“The consequences of the previous government’s dismantling of the IMF programme had deeply affected the economy, resulting in severe setbacks.”

Approach to foreign relations

Moreover, the previous government’s approach to foreign relations had a detrimental impact, he observed.

The prime minister also shed light on the strategic partnership with China, labeling it a true friend, while lamenting the negative propaganda that had been spread.

Touching upon recent events, he mentioned that a political leader had recently been sentenced, a matter that he did not take pleasure in.

“We should not derive satisfaction from someone’s punishment, and it’s not a healthy practice,” he remarked.

He also highlighted the May 9 incident in Pakistan’s history, a day that will be remembered for the disrespect shown towards martyrs and heroes.

Acknowledging the immense sacrifice made by the guardians of the nation, he appreciated the security forces’ unwavering commitment to protecting the country.

“Through their sacrifices, our heroes ensured that countless children were not orphaned and that the country’s youth did not become destitute,” he added.

Prime Minister Sharif hailed the collective efforts of the nation in the fight against terrorism, with 80,000 Pakistanis losing their lives in the struggle.

He noted that the world also praised the resolve of the nation in eradicating terrorism.

Turning to recent developments, he mentioned the unfortunate event that took place on May 9. “On that day, a unity was formed against the state, the army, and the chief of army staff,” he stated, condemning the act.

As he neared the end of his address, Prime Minister Sharif expressed gratitude for being elected by the assembly and assured that he was speaking with full responsibility.

He also commented on the unfortunate incidents that had transpired against political leaders and sensitive institutions.

Summing up, he acknowledged that these 16 months had been the most challenging of his life, surpassing anything experienced before.

He questioned how investments could be attracted when the country was grappling with inflation, political sit-ins, and uncertainty.

IMF programme

Acknowledging the challenge posed by the IMF programme, he reflected that the agreement had been reached and the country had averted default. He attributed the turn of events to the resolve of the nation.

Reflecting on the previous government, Prime Minister Sharif lamented the deterioration of friendly relations. He emphasized the need to maintain an approach that aligned with friendly nations, as evidenced by the interactions both within and outside the assembly.

He expressed his hope for the continuation of positive relations with international friends.

“We shouldn’t kneel in front of the world by accumulating debt,” he asserted, adding that many countries that had previously borrowed were now standing on their own feet.

Learning from mistakes

In conclusion, he encouraged a culture of learning from mistakes and emphasised that arrogance and stubbornness should not be part of one’s character.

Addressing the matter of Balochistan’s demands, he acknowledged their legitimacy and expressed pride in the government’s extensive efforts to address them.

Reflecting on his tenure, Sharif expressed his optimism for the country’s future while stressing the importance of hard work and dedication in the journey ahead.