ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for unity and harmony to eliminate terrorism and address the country’s economic and social problems.
He was addressing the National Youth and Ulema Convention titled “Rab-e-Zul-Jalaal Ka Ehsaan – Pakistan” in connection with Jumatul Wida (last Friday of Ramadan) in Islamabad on Friday.
The Prime Minister stressed that individuals from all walks of life, particularly the Ulema, have a crucial role in overcoming internal divisions based on religion and ethnicity.
He reminded the nation that our forefathers made immense sacrifices for the creation of Pakistan, but today, internal conflicts and personal ambitions are taking precedence over the country’s progress and prosperity.
He emphasised the need to set aside personal desires and egos for the greater good of Pakistan.
Shehbaz Sharif also highlighted the unmatched sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces in the fight against terrorism. He pointed out that while Pakistan is rich in natural resources, its adversaries do not want the country to benefit from these treasures hidden in the mountains.
He urged the nation to reflect on how much longer our brave security forces and sons of the soil will continue to shed blood. He called for learning from history and moving forward by putting aside personal differences and ambitions, stressing that unity is the only way for Pakistan to achieve a respected position among the nations of the world.
The Prime Minister asked the young people to fully dedicate themselves to the development of the homeland. He assured that the government would not hesitate to allocate maximum financial resources to empower the youth and equip them with modern knowledge and skills.
He said the government has taken revolutionary steps under the Digital Youth Hub initiative in education, employment, entrepreneurship, and skill development.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of utilising media and digital platforms positively. He urged Ulema and intellectuals to encourage constructive thinking and research within society to combat fake news and baseless propaganda. He expressed concern that, unfortunately, negative propaganda is being used to sow divisions and hatred within society.
The Prime Minister also expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Palestine. He reaffirmed that Pakistan will continue to support the people of Kashmir and Palestine until they achieve freedom.