Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for coordinated and sustained efforts to transform Pakistan into a strong economic power, stressing that national development requires unity, reform and long-term planning across key sectors of the economy.
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Addressing ceremonies held in connection with “Marka-e-Haq,” the prime minister praised Pakistan’s armed forces for their role in defending the country and said the nation had stood united during difficult times. He added that Pakistan’s nuclear capability is solely for defensive purposes and not for aggression, describing it as essential for national security and regional stability.
Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to national figures involved in Pakistan’s nuclear programme, noting that May 28, which marks the country’s nuclear tests, is a symbol of national resilience and scientific achievement. He also acknowledged the role of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in advancing the nuclear programme.
The prime minister said that recent regional tensions and global economic pressures had also impacted Pakistan’s economy, highlighting the need for stronger reforms to ensure stability and growth.
Separately, while chairing a meeting on housing sector reforms, Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need for modernisation, transparency and improved governance in urban development. He said providing affordable housing for low-income groups and encouraging private sector participation remained key government priorities.
He warned that rapid population growth and unplanned urban expansion were putting pressure on agricultural land and city infrastructure, requiring a comprehensive national strategy. The prime minister directed that housing sector processes be digitised and brought under a proper regulatory framework to improve efficiency and attract overseas investment.
Officials briefed the meeting on proposed reforms, including simplified regulations for developers, mandatory registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, and the introduction of one-window operations to facilitate stakeholders. The government also plans to encourage vertical urban growth and improved master planning in major cities.
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Senior cabinet members and officials attended the meeting, which concluded with instructions to consult provincial governments on the proposed reforms for implementation.