By Hafiz Rahat Usama 
Focus on Key Sectors for Growth
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday called for the development of a comprehensive roadmap and reform agenda aimed at boosting investment and trade in Pakistan. Chairing a high-level meeting on enhancing economic activities, the premier highlighted that agriculture, information technology, minerals, tourism, and renewable energy were vital sectors that could attract both local and foreign investment.
He stressed that trade promotion must go hand in hand with investment initiatives to significantly enhance Pakistan’s exports, thereby strengthening the country’s global economic footprint.
Timely Completion of Ongoing Projects
PM Shehbaz directed ministries to make full use of available resources to ensure the timely completion of all ongoing development projects. He underlined the importance of identifying feasible projects and taking immediate measures to implement them effectively.
He further instructed that the roadmap and reform agenda must be forward-looking and structured, allowing for sustainable progress in line with national priorities.
Role of the Private Sector
The Prime Minister placed special emphasis on the involvement of the private sector, noting its importance in achieving the government’s economic goals. He said that private enterprises would be given an enabling environment to participate actively in shaping Pakistan’s economic future.
“Our ongoing economic and financial reform policies have given a new direction to the economy, and due to innovation and transparency, the country is now on the path of development,” the premier remarked, reflecting his confidence in the current reform initiatives.
Participation of Key Ministers
The meeting, chaired via Zoom from London, was attended by several cabinet members, including Federal Minister for Environment Musadik Malik, Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervez Malik, Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Jehanzeb, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema. Each ministry was tasked with identifying practical measures to align their portfolios with the broader investment and trade roadmap.
International Engagements
Prime Minister Shehbaz’s directives came shortly after he reached the United Kingdom, following the signing of a historic mutual defence pact with Saudi Arabia. The premier is now scheduled to lead Pakistan’s delegation at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), commencing Monday.
During his visit to the United States, the Prime Minister is expected to participate in a meeting of select Islamic leaders with US President Donald Trump. The dialogue will focus on regional and international peace and security issues, providing an opportunity for Pakistan to present its perspectives on global challenges.
Agenda at the UNGA
At the UNGA, the Prime Minister is set to raise pressing international concerns, particularly the situations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Palestine. He will urge the global community to address the prolonged occupation and denial of self-determination to the people of these regions.
In addition to his address, PM Shehbaz will hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders on the sidelines of the assembly. His schedule also includes participation in high-level events such as meetings of the UN Security Council, a Global Development Initiative (GDI) session, and a Special High-Level Event on Climate Action. These engagements reflect Pakistan’s intent to contribute actively to global dialogue on development, peace, and sustainability.