Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged scholars to utilize their education, research, and international experience for Pakistan’s development and prosperity.
He was talking to scholars participating in the “Uraan Overseas Pakistan Summer Scholars Programme” in Islamabad today.
The scholars, under the Ministry of Planning and Development, are undertaking a six-week internship to conduct research on key challenges facing Pakistan.
The Prime Minister welcomed the decision of Pakistani students studying at leading universities around the world to undertake internships in Pakistan.
Highlighting the importance of youth in nation-building, Shehbaz Sharif said young people have a pivotal role to play in the country’s development.
He said Pakistani students across the world are bringing pride to the country through their academic achievements.
The Prime Minister briefed the scholars on the government’s reform agenda and answered their questions.
Recalling the country’s recent economic challenges, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had reached the brink of default in the past, but economic stability was achieved through emergency reforms.
He said the government’s comprehensive reform programme includes the digitalization of the Federal Board of Revenue, increasing tax revenues, improving the ease of doing business, enhancing productivity, developing the agriculture sector, empowering youth, promoting renewable energy, and ensuring sustainable economic growth.
The Prime Minister said effective enforcement measures enabled the FBR to collect over 800 billion rupees in additional revenue during the last fiscal year.
He said the objective of the government’s economic reforms is to lay the foundation for a strong, self-reliant, and export-oriented economy.
Referring to national security, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan, under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and with the full support of the nation, defeated India in May 2025.
Highlighting Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, he said the country’s mediation role in ending the conflict between the United States and Iran has become a significant chapter in Pakistan’s diplomatic history.
He said Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives resulted in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, describing it as an important step towards global peace.
During the meeting, the students also shared their views and suggestions for improving various sectors of the country.
