Pakistan must convert nuclear strength into economic power: PM Shehbaz

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Pakistan must now transform its nuclear capability into sustained economic strength, stressing that the same national resolve that enabled nuclear development is required for economic progress.

Addressing a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said Pakistan’s nuclear capability, achieved after the May 28, 1998 tests in Chagai, Balochistan, remains a “defensive asset” and reflects the country’s responsible nuclear posture.

He reiterated that Pakistan’s nuclear doctrine is based on defence rather than aggression, which, he said, has shaped international perceptions of the country.

The prime minister paid tribute to political leadership linked to the nuclear programme, naming late prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as its initiator and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif for completing the process.

Turning to economic policy, he told the cabinet that while some progress had been achieved over the past two years, economic transformation remains a prolonged and challenging process requiring sustained effort.

He said nations achieve success when they remain committed through difficulties, adding that perseverance ultimately leads to progress.

The prime minister also referred to regional instability, including conflict in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that such developments have created economic pressures for Pakistan and other countries.

At the outset of his remarks, he mentioned “Marka-i-Haq,” describing it as a brief military confrontation between Pakistan and India in May last year, and said national unity and the armed forces’ performance had led to Pakistan’s success.

He said Pakistan had emerged victorious due to national cohesion and praised the armed forces for their role in the conflict.

PM Shehbaz also highlighted ongoing sacrifices in counterterrorism operations, citing railway employee Muhammad Liaqat, whom he described as a national hero for stopping a suicide attack in Attock.

He said the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism remain significant and are a source of national pride.