- The Prime Minister emphasizes economic stabilization, growth and budgetary discipline.
- Leaders salute the courage and professionalism of the armed forces.
- Both emphasize education, innovation and inclusive social development.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended New Year greetings to the nation, emphasizing national unity, economic stability and reconciliation in 2026.
In his New Year message, the President urged citizens and political forces to recommit to safeguarding the country’s common destiny in the face of growing global and national challenges.
He noted that the country was approaching its 79th Independence Day at a time that demanded “national introspection and collective resolve.”
“Describing a world marked by wars, proxy conflicts, extremism, economic turmoil, climate emergencies and deep social polarization, President Zardari said Pakistan was not immune to these pressures but neither was it powerless.
He said unity, resilience, creativity and faith were essential to overcome these challenges.
On the economy, the president said global inflation, debt pressures, supply chain disruptions and technological competition underscored the need for economic sovereignty based on discipline rather than denial.
He emphasized productivity over populism, exports over excuses and inclusive growth over crony capitalism, calling for sustained investments in education, health, youth, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
President Zardari has warned that climate change has become a national security issue, citing floods, droughts, water scarcity and extreme heat as the new normal.
He said climate adaptation must advance alongside mitigation to protect lives and livelihoods.
Addressing internal political conditions, the president said democracy thrives on disagreements conducted with civility and responsibility.
He urged political forces to engage constructively in Parliament and warned against allowing a political cause to be exploited by hostile elements seeking to undermine Pakistan’s stability or sponsor terrorism.
“It’s not time to turn on the heat. It’s time to turn on the lights,” he said.
As a symbol of the unity of the federation, President Zardari declared his readiness to lead a process of national reconciliation and healing to bridge divisions and restore trust among democratic forces, emphasizing that Pakistan needed cooperation rather than confrontation.
Referring to security challenges faced earlier in the year, the President said national unity and professionalism of the armed forces ensured defense of Pakistan’s sovereignty.
While reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, he said the country’s defense was non-negotiable and any existential threat would be faced with full national resolve.
He also expressed concern over what he termed India’s “weaponisation of water”, terming it a violation of international agreements and international law, and said Pakistan reserved the right to resolve this issue by all means available.
On foreign policy, the President said Pakistan would continue to act as a responsible member of the international community and a stabilizing force through bilateral and multilateral engagement.
He reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to peacefully resolve all outstanding disputes with India, including the Jammu and Kashmir issue, in line with international commitments, and urged the Afghan de facto authorities to honor the Doha Accord and ensure that Afghan soil is not used against neighboring states.
Expressing hope for an end to global conflicts, including the war between Ukraine and Russia, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people and their right to an independent and sovereign state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
The president called for restraint in the face of anger, for unity rather than division and for renewal in the face of despair, ending with the message: “Pakistan Zindabad.
PM presents government roadmap for 2026
Prime Minister Shehbaz, in his message to the nation, paid glowing tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of the people of Pakistan, lauded the unmatched bravery of the armed forces and outlined the government’s roadmap for a stable, self-reliant and prosperous Pakistan.
In his message on X, the Prime Minister extended warm greetings to all Pakistanis at home and abroad.
He also viewed the past year as one that tested the nation’s mettle, but ultimately reaffirmed its collective strength and unwavering faith in the future.
“The past year has tested our nation in many ways, but it has also reaffirmed our collective strength and self-confidence,” the Prime Minister said.
He stressed that economic stabilization and the restoration of confidence were achieved through “perseverance, discipline and difficult but necessary decisions”, placing the country firmly on the path to sustainable growth.
“These achievements are the result of the hard work, patience and sacrifices of the people of Pakistan.
I salute you for your resilience and your faith in the future of our country,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz.
He particularly mentioned the heroic efforts of the Pakistani armed forces.
He praised their “unparalleled courage and bravery” in their response to aggression and against the threat of terrorism, both on the battlefield and in diplomatic arenas.
Paying tribute to military leadership, the Prime Minister said, “Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has demonstrated exemplary military leadership that the entire world has come to respect and admire.”
He added: “We are immensely proud of our army, air force and navy, who have taught our enemy that wars are won with heart and not pride. »
Presenting the government’s economic program, the Prime Minister highlighted the significant steps taken to strengthen economic fundamentals, improve governance and expand social protection.
“From fiscal discipline and structural reforms to renewed momentum in investment, exports and energy security, Pakistan has started moving forward with renewed confidence,” he said.
The Prime Minister stressed that the government’s efforts were guided by the determination to build a Pakistan that provides opportunities and dignity to every citizen.
He identified innovation, technology and human capital development as central to the national journey, with targeted investments in education, digital transformation and emerging technologies.
“Sustainable growth starts with opportunity and hope for our young people.
“From agriculture and industry to information technology and renewable energy, we are committed to increasing productivity, encouraging innovation and creating jobs,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz.
He reaffirmed the commitment to nurturing Pakistan’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, which he described as a source of strength and pride, and ensuring inclusive growth through expanded social safety nets and improved healthcare and education.
On the foreign policy front, the Prime Minister said Pakistan continues to engage with the world with confidence and responsibility, committed to peace, regional stability and a rules-based international order.
“At a time of global uncertainty and conflict, Pakistan will continue to advocate dialogue over confrontation, development over division and cooperation over unilateralism,” he said.
“As the sun of the new year rises, may our beloved homeland stand tall, full of dignity and strength.
“May our fields produce abundance, may our homes be filled with peace, and may our nation move forward in the light of hope and opportunity,” the Prime Minister said.
“With unity, discipline and hard work, we will build a Pakistan that is economically strong, socially just and resilient in the face of challenges.
“The journey may be long, but our determination is firm. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones,” he added.
