Independence Day: PM Promises Economic Relief, Lower Tariffs

News Desk

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, while addressing the nation on the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan, urged the people, especially the youth, to support the government in its efforts to make the country prosperous, stable, and peaceful.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the youth are the bright future of Pakistan and play a pivotal role in the country’s development.

He advised them to focus on their studies and acquire skill-based education, warning against being swayed by the negative agendas of adversaries seeking to exploit their potential for anti-state activities.

“The next few years are crucial for you and the country. Only focus on your studies and attaining skill-based education. Do not allow the enemy, who is out to target you, to divert your capabilities toward anti-state activities,” the Prime Minister urged the youth while speaking at a ceremony held in connection with Independence Day celebrations.

He expressed concern that the country’s enemies are now using digital terrorism tools to undermine Pakistan’s development.

On this Independence Day, the Prime Minister extended his heartfelt felicitations to the people of Pakistan and paid homage to the immense sacrifices made by the forefathers and countless unsung heroes of the Pakistan Movement. These heroes fought tirelessly for an independent country where millions in South Asia could live according to their beliefs and values.

As envisioned by Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Pakistan emerged as an independent and sovereign state on the world map on August 14, 1947, through the unwavering leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the unmatched sacrifices of our ancestors, he added.

The Prime Minister acknowledged that while the past 77 years have not been without challenges, the country has managed to survive due to the resilience of its people, who have faced natural disasters and economic and social challenges with fortitude.

“We should learn from our past and move forward with renewed determination to take the country on the path of prosperity and development,” he said.

Addressing the current concerns of the people, particularly inflation, electricity bills, and unemployment, the Prime Minister expressed his deep commitment to providing maximum relief. He paid tribute to individuals from various sectors, including sports, education, and health, and specifically saluted Olympic hero Arshad Nadeem, who won a gold medal for Pakistan in the Paris Olympics and was present at the ceremony with his mother.

The Prime Minister resolved to continue working hard for the country’s development to fulfill the dream of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Acknowledging that electricity bills are currently a major concern for everyone, the Prime Minister stated that without reducing electricity tariffs, Pakistan’s industry, agriculture, and exports could not grow.

“The government is working day and night to resolve this issue,” he assured, adding that in a few days, the nation would receive good news regarding a significant reduction in electricity tariffs.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister announced that he would address the nation in a few days to present a five-year economic plan for the country.

On this occasion, PM Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the ongoing Israeli atrocities against the Palestinians, stating that the “massacre of thousands of innocent Palestinians has diminished our joy on this Independence Day.” 

He also reaffirmed the government’s resolve to stand by the Kashmiri brothers and sisters until the Kashmir issue is resolved according to the will of the people of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K).