Shehbaz Sharif Declares New Era in US-Pakistan Ties
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan and the United States are entering a new era of relations. He announced that a ceasefire has been established between Pakistan and India, expressing hope that it will be long-lasting and sustainable, enabling increased cooperation in investment, trade, and other sectors. The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the Independence Day celebration at the U.S. Embassy on Wednesday.
Shehbaz Sharif stated that the Pakistani government and people warmly congratulate U.S. President Donald Trump, the government, and the American people on the 249th Independence Day of the United States. He expressed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and promoting closer relations between the two countries.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the United States was among the first countries to recognize Pakistan and that several developmental projects, including dam construction, were completed with U.S. assistance. He noted that after 9/11, Pakistan played a frontline role in the global war against terrorism and successfully eradicated terrorism by 2018. However, this effort came at a great cost, with over 90,000 lives lost and economic losses exceeding 150 billion dollars.
Shehbaz Sharif affirmed Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate all forms of terrorism and its ongoing efforts towards economic revival. He emphasized Pakistan’s desire for peace, development, and prosperity both regionally and globally.
Regarding recent conflict with India, the Prime Minister described the Pulwama incident as a false flag operation and urged India to present solid evidence to the world. Pakistan had offered transparent investigations, but India responded with aggression. He detailed that Indian attacks killed 33 innocent Pakistanis, including women and children, and wounded 55 others, to which Pakistan responded by downing six Indian aircraft. Subsequently, a ceasefire was agreed upon, facilitated by earnest U.S. diplomatic efforts.
Shehbaz Sharif praised U.S. President Donald Trump as a peace advocate who supports de-escalation and global prosperity. He appreciated Trump’s efforts to promote ceasefire between Pakistan and India. He also acknowledged the strong support Pakistan received from Middle Eastern and Gulf countries.
The Prime Minister reiterated that the ceasefire between Pakistan and India is in place, hoping it will continue, fostering cooperation in various sectors. He mentioned ongoing talks with the United States on bilateral trade, tariffs, and cooperation in IT, energy, agriculture, and education. He described President Trump’s vision as commendable.
