LONDON: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that Pakistan has always stood by Iran in times of crisis and will continue to extend its moral and diplomatic support.”
Speaking to media representatives outside his residence at Avenfield Apartments in London, Nawaz Sharif said that the country is now witnessing a positive shift toward stability and growth, crediting the current leadership for laying the foundation for long-term national progress.
He praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for their effective leadership in guiding the nation through a period of economic and political turbulence.
“The country is finally emerging from a prolonged phase of uncertainty and decline,” Nawaz Sharif remarked. “Thanks to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Pakistan is now headed toward a new era of development and prosperity. If this trajectory continues over the next eight to ten years, Pakistan will overcome its major challenges.”
The former premier particularly commended the recently unveiled federal and provincial budgets, describing them as “people-oriented, inclusive, and growth-focused.” He emphasised that the financial plans presented by both the federal and Punjab governments reflect a strong commitment to improving the lives of ordinary citizens and reviving key sectors of the economy.
“The budget is a forward-looking initiative that not only addresses public needs but also prioritises national development,” he said. “It shows sincerity, discipline, and a clear vision for inclusive economic reform.”
Nawaz Sharif noted that the economic indicators are beginning to stabilise and that investor confidence is gradually returning—results he attributes to a combination of sound policymaking, political will, and divine blessing.
Addressing matters of national defence and foreign policy, Nawaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s identity as a responsible nuclear power, underscoring that the country’s nuclear arsenal is designed solely as a deterrent to maintain peace in the region.
“We did not build nuclear weapons for conflict, but for the preservation of peace,” Nawaz stated. “Our nuclear program is a symbol of our sovereignty and security, not aggression. Pakistan is fortunate to possess this capability, and it will always be used with responsibility.”
As the architect of Pakistan’s 1998 nuclear tests, Nawaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan has always advocated peaceful coexistence and regional stability, and will continue to pursue a foreign policy based on dialogue, mutual respect, and non-interference.
Turning to regional tensions, the former Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the recent escalation in the Middle East, particularly the Israeli attacks on Iranian targets. Nawaz Sharif condemned the use of force against Iran, calling it an affront to international norms and basic human values.
“What kind of humanity allows for the bombing of a sovereign nation like Iran?” he asked. “Pakistan has always stood by Iran in times of crisis and will continue to extend its moral and diplomatic support.”
He emphasised that military aggression and destabilising tactics not only threaten regional peace but also undermine global efforts to foster diplomacy and cooperation.
Nawaz Sharif concluded his remarks with a hopeful message for the Pakistani people, urging them to remain patient and united as the country transitions toward recovery and renewal.
“We are at a turning point. The path forward requires political maturity, economic prudence, and national unity. If we stay the course, the next decade can transform Pakistan into a stable, progressive, and respected nation on the world stage.”
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