LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared Pakistan’s recent conflict with India a historic victory, saying the world has acknowledged the country’s major achievement.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the revamped Pakistan Business Express at Lahore Railway Station, the premier expressed pride over the improvement in Pakistan Railways, describing it as a “welcome change.”
“The upgraded facilities are now designed for the common citizen, not just the elite,” he said, highlighting the introduction of a modern digital ticketing system and upgraded business-class coaches equipped with berths, kitchens, and dining halls.
Shehbaz Sharif said the train service has been modernized in line with European standards, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s recent standoff with India, the Prime Minister said, “Pakistan has avenged the 1971 war. India will now think a hundred times before launching any aggression.”
He said the conflict lasted four days and posed serious risks, but Pakistan’s armed forces responded with extraordinary bravery.
“Our nation supported us with prayers, and our military leadership stood firm,” he noted. “The Air Force displayed exceptional courage and precision.”
He credited former Railways Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique for reforms introduced during the PDM government, particularly in land recovery and station upgrades.
“Credit must be given where it’s due,” he remarked.
Shehbaz also touched on international diplomacy, stating that Pakistan is in advanced talks with China over CPEC Phase-II and relations with the United States are improving.
Quoting former U.S. President Donald Trump, he said Trump acknowledged helping to de-escalate tensions during the Pakistan-India confrontation; a move Shehbaz termed a “major diplomatic win.”
In conclusion, the Prime Minister said the military’s performance during the conflict earned global praise and had reshaped international perceptions of Pakistan’s capabilities.
