'Moving with a begging bowl': Pak PM Sharif laments his country's state of economy | Watch
About Shahbaz Sharif
In mid-June 2026, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif delivered a series of speeches in the National Assembly and to his cabinet following the approval of the federal budget for fiscal year 2026-27. During a parliamentary debate, he responded to the Leader of the Opposition, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, stating he would not give a detailed reply at that time but would address the points later. Sharif emphasized the need for national unity and respect among members, describing the assembly as a "house" where representatives from all provinces are elected. He also spoke about the sacrifices of security forces, referencing a recent helicopter crash that killed 22 military personnel, including two Christian soldiers, and condemned ongoing terrorism in Balochistan, alleging that "Kharij" (a term used for militants) were receiving technical and material support. On the budget, Sharif thanked his cabinet and finance team for their work, stating that the economy had stabilized and indicators were broad and stable, but acknowledged that ordinary citizens needed employment and production growth. He argued that the government must focus on indigenous energy sources, including solar and wind, and called for building dams and water reserves. Regarding provincial resource distribution, he cited the 2010 NFC Award as an example where Balochistan's share was increased by 100%, describing it as a model of brotherhood rather than charity. He defended security measures along the Durand Line, stating that if spending billions of rupees saved even one child from terrorism, it was a justified expense. Sharif also noted that the Gulf crisis presented both challenges and opportunities, warning that if Pakistan failed to capitalize on them, future generations would not forgive the government.