Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday renewed his appeal for a “Charter of Democracy” and a Charter of Economy, urging political parties to set aside their differences and work together for Pakistan’s stability and progress.
Speaking in the National Assembly during the budget session for the 2026-27 fiscal year, the prime minister said the country’s future depends on cooperation beyond political divisions. He stressed that democratic continuity and economic stability could only be achieved through dialogue and consensus.
Shehbaz Sharif said he had repeatedly invited the opposition to engage in constructive talks, adding that national interests must take precedence over political rivalries.
“We have no fight with PTI; they are all our brothers,” he told lawmakers, emphasizing that Parliament should function like a family where differences of opinion exist but unity remains intact. He added that all political stakeholders share responsibility for Pakistan’s future.
Addressing the issue of provincial rights, the prime minister reaffirmed support for the constitutional authority of provinces over their resources. He highlighted ongoing development initiatives in Balochistan, including a Rs75 billion solar panel programme for farmers and the construction of the Gwadar-Chaman highway project worth Rs300 billion.
He said the highway project was part of the government’s commitment to national development and not the result of political pressure. Referring to the 2010 NFC Award, he noted that Balochistan’s share had been doubled in accordance with constitutional requirements.
The prime minister also paid tribute to the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for their continued efforts against terrorism. He said the nation remains proud of the sacrifices made by security personnel, noting that 22 officials had embraced martyrdom in recent days.
Opening the budget debate, Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai welcomed the idea of political dialogue and called for disputes to be resolved through consultation and mutual respect.
He urged political leaders to honour electoral mandates and strengthen democratic institutions through cooperation. Achakzai also emphasized the need to empower Parliament and ensure that federal-provincial financial arrangements remain balanced and transparent.
Warning against deepening political divisions, he called for reducing pressure on opposition figures and proposed a broader political understanding in which parties respect election outcomes and avoid interference during each other’s terms in office.
He said lasting political stability is essential for effective governance and sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.
