'Did Imran, who said Shehbaz asks for money, distribute cash on foreign trips himself?': PM

During a gathering in DG Khan, PM Shehbaz Sharif said his government is focused on economic stability and development.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday took a swipe at his predecessor, Imran Khan, questioning whether the former leader "gave away money" during his foreign visits.

Addressing a rally in Dera Ghazi Khan, PM Shehbaz responded to past allegations that he sought financial assistance from other countries. "A politician used to say that Shehbaz Sharif goes abroad to ask for money. I ask, did you go abroad to distribute money?" he remarked.

The prime minister also announced the establishment of a cancer hospital in Dera Ghazi Khan and a university in Rajanpur, calling them steps towards equitable development in Punjab. He said the government remained committed to improving education, healthcare, and industry across all provinces.

PM Shehbaz reiterated his government's economic achievements, claiming that inflation had dropped from 40% to 2.4% under his administration.

"When we took office, inflation was at its peak. Nawaz Sharif sacrificed his politics for the sake of the state, and today, the results are visible," he said.

He criticised past anti-government protests, saying they harmed Pakistan’s progress. "Marches on Islamabad were aimed at destabilising the country. That chapter must be closed," he added.

The prime minister also praised Federal Minister for Power Awais Leghari for efforts in the energy sector, stating that the government was working to reduce electricity bills.

"We will continue working until Pakistan stands tall among the great nations of the world," Shehbaz concluded.

Moreover, earlier this week, PM Shahbaz announced that consultations are ongoing regarding the regulation of digital currency in Pakistan.

The statement was made during a meeting of the Economic Advisory Council, which was chaired by the Prime Minister and attended by various council members.

The participants expressed confidence in government policies and provided suggestions for future growth, which were welcomed by the Prime Minister.

In his address, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that economic stability is a collective effort, not the work of any individual. He reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable economic development and highlighted efforts to promote trade in the region.

The Prime Minister stated that the government aims to enhance the competitiveness of local industries in international markets, with a focus on boosting exports and creating jobs. He also mentioned initiatives to establish green data centers and improve telecommunication services, particularly in remote areas, to increase IT exports and the number of freelancers.

The Prime Minister further emphasized the ongoing efforts to regulate digital currency in Pakistan and expressed the importance of turning today’s discussions into actionable plans.

During the meeting, participants commended the government’s economic measures, noting that the country’s economy is stable and moving towards growth. They pointed out that stability in prices has led to increased production, and the government’s action plan is being acknowledged by global economic institutions, investors, and the business community.

They also appreciated the government’s commitment to institutional reforms and improvements in the tax system, which have fostered a more business-friendly environment.

The meeting also highlighted a rise in exports within a month, which participants saw as a positive indicator of economic recovery. Furthermore, the crackdown on smuggling was seen as contributing to the growth in exports.