ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government would not let protests undermine Pakistan’s economy, adding that authorities would act to safeguard lives and property.
Speaking at the groundbreaking of the Kashmir Chowk Underpass in Islamabad, he cited gains in economic stability, exports and remittances over the past two and a half years. Sharif urged PTI to call off its long march, saying the government was prepared to sit down with the party and work towards resolving issues through dialogue.
He said the PML-N and PPP had agreed to pursue good-faith negotiations with PTI, but discussions had failed to produce results. Sharif said the government remained serious about talks, while regretting that the other side had not helped make them successful.
The prime minister commended Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi for setting a one-month deadline to complete the underpass. He said improved road infrastructure helps people travel more efficiently and supports development.
Naqvi said the project was part of Islamabad’s preparations for next year’s SCO Summit. He also outlined plans to make the capital plastic-free, introduce cashless services and digitise land records by year-end. Plans for new green spaces include a park the size of F-9 Park and a Safari Park.
