ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged national unity, economic resilience and a continued focus on reform in a New Year message on Wednesday, saying the country had weathered security and economic challenges in 2025 and must now build on its gains as it enters 2026.

Sharif’s statement comes as Pakistan seeks to consolidate macroeconomic stabilization and navigate a volatile regional and global environment. He framed the year ahead as one requiring cohesion, discipline and sustained reform, while reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to diplomacy and multilateral engagement.

“Over the past year, we responded to the aggression of enemies and countered the menace of terrorism with matchless courage and bravery, both on the battlefield and in negotiation rooms,” the prime minister said in a post on social media platform X.

“We have also taken meaningful steps to strengthen economic fundamentals, improve governance, expand social protection, and lay the groundwork for long-term development,” he added. “Our efforts are guided by our collective resolve to build a stable, self-reliant, and prosperous Pakistan that delivers opportunity and dignity to every citizen.”

Sharif said Pakistan had begun to restore confidence through fiscal discipline, structural reforms and renewed momentum in investment, exports and energy security, crediting the public’s “hard work, patience, and sacrifices” for recent progress.

On foreign policy, he said the country would continue to prioritize dialogue and cooperation amid rising instability.

“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.

“With unity, discipline, and hard work, we shall build a Pakistan that is economically strong, socially just, and resilient in the face of challenges,” Sharif added.