PTBP Web Desk
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorism from Pakistan. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 7th Maritime Security Workshop at the Pakistan Navy War College in Lahore, the Prime Minister underscored the immense sacrifices made by the nation in its battle against terrorism.
Addressing the attendees, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the heavy toll terrorism has exacted on Pakistan over the years. “Eighty thousand people lost their lives while the economy suffered losses amounting to billions of dollars during the war against terrorism,” he said. The Prime Minister pointed out that the previous government, led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), had successfully eradicated terrorism in 2018. However, he lamented the resurgence of this menace in recent times and stressed the need for renewed efforts to combat it.
Reiterating his resolve, Prime Minister Sharif declared, “We will not rest until terrorism is completely eradicated from our country.” He elaborated on the government’s proactive measures, including the convening of multiple Apex Committee meetings to ensure the maintenance of law and order. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that these concerted efforts, combined with the sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces, would lead to lasting peace and security.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to the officers and soldiers of the armed forces who have laid down their lives in the line of duty. He acknowledged their critical role in safeguarding Pakistan’s security and emphasized that their sacrifices would not go in vain. “The great sacrifices offered by our armed forces are a testament to their commitment to the nation,” he said.
Discussing the capabilities of the Pakistan Navy, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended its officers and sailors for their dedication and competence. “The Pakistan Navy possesses the commitment and capacity to address the entire spectrum of threats, making it a formidable force capable of ensuring the country’s maritime security,” he remarked.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of maritime security in protecting Pakistan’s interests and fostering economic growth. He noted that the Pakistan Navy is playing a pivotal role in unlocking the potential of the country’s marine resources, a key aspect of the blue economy.
Prime Minister Sharif underlined the significance of harnessing the blue economy as a pathway to Pakistan’s development and prosperity. He pointed out the vast potential of marine resources and the critical role of the Pakistan Navy in supporting sustainable development in the maritime sector. “Pakistan’s progress is intrinsically linked to the effective utilization of its blue economy,” he stated.
The Prime Minister also highlighted Pakistan’s collaboration with China in the maritime sector. He expressed optimism about the transformative impact of the fully operational Gwadar Port, a flagship project of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). “Pakistan will achieve greater prosperity when the Gwadar Port becomes fully functional,” he said, emphasizing its potential to enhance trade and economic activities in the region.
The 7th Maritime Security Workshop, organized at the Pakistan Navy War College, served as a platform for strategic discussions on maritime security and economic development. Participants included naval officers, defense experts, and policymakers, who engaged in insightful deliberations on enhancing Pakistan’s maritime capabilities and addressing emerging challenges.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s address at the workshop underscored the government’s dual focus on combating terrorism and strengthening maritime security. His call for collective action, bolstered by the sacrifices of the armed forces and strategic partnerships, reflects a comprehensive approach to achieving national security and economic progress.
