One-Day Tour Features Defence Collaboration and Foreign Policy Discourse
Karachi – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the port city for a scheduled one-day visit, signaling both internal consolidation and external readiness in Pakistan’s national affairs.
The Prime Minister was received by Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Minister for Education, before heading to his primary engagement at the Pakistan Navy Dockyard.
Honoring Naval Forces and National Integrity
During the visit, PM Sharif engaged with naval officers and enlisted personnel, extending formal appreciation for their dedication, particularly in reference to the historic operation known as “Marka-e-Haq.”
He praised their role in maintaining maritime sovereignty and reiterated the government’s commitment to bolstering naval capabilities through both policy and resources.
High-Level Delegation Participation
Joining the premier were several key federal ministers:
- Defence Minister Khawaja Asif
- Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal
- Information Minister Attaullah Tarar
The ministers are expected to conduct side meetings to evaluate Karachi’s infrastructural expansion and defense manufacturing capabilities.
Broader Strategic Context: Response to Indian Allegations
The visit comes amidst a diplomatic climate fraught with tension following India’s accusations regarding the Pahalgam incident. Prime Minister Sharif recently criticized New Delhi for its failure to provide credible evidence while trying to draw links to Pakistan.
In a meeting with Turkish Ambassador Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance: “Terrorism in all forms is condemnable, but accountability must be grounded in truth and transparency.”
He urged the international community to oversee an independent inquiry, warning against politically motivated narratives.
The Karachi trip, though brief, is emblematic of Shehbaz Sharif’s approach—merging military solidarity with diplomatic clarity in times of regional uncertainty.
