LAHORE, Sunday, June 1, 2025 (WNP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari held a high-level meeting at the Governor’s House in Lahore on Sunday to review the country’s prevailing political and security situation.
During the meeting, the two leaders engaged in comprehensive discussions on key national matters, including internal stability, political dynamics, and ongoing security challenges. They also reviewed the outcomes of the prime minister’s recent visits to friendly countries, focusing on their potential impact on Pakistan’s foreign policy and bilateral relations.
Emphasizing the need for strong coordination among coalition partners, the leadership reiterated the importance of unity in navigating the current political landscape. President Zardari called on the government to prioritize public welfare in the upcoming federal budget. “The government must take practical and impactful steps to provide relief to the common man,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of political solidarity, stating, “Coalition partners must move forward together in the national interest.”
The meeting was attended by Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, and Senator Saleem Mandviwalla.
Zardari urges closer ties with Bangladesh, hails cricket’s role in bridging nations
Later in the day, President Asif Ali Zardari hosted a reception in honour of the Pakistan and Bangladesh men’s cricket teams at the Governor’s House, where he reiterated Pakistan’s desire to strengthen bilateral ties with Bangladesh in multiple domains including trade, culture, sports, and people-to-people exchanges.
“Building a strong relationship doesn’t happen overnight, but we must keep investing in our people and find common solutions to elevate our ties,” President Zardari said, addressing the gathering.
He expressed the hope that economic collaboration between Pakistani and Bangladeshi businesses would grow and highlighted the government’s willingness to deepen engagement with Dhaka. “We have a bright future as two nations,” he added.
Lauding Bangladesh’s progress over the past five decades, the president described it as a global success story in both economic development and human resource capital. “Allah has blessed you with financial strength and skilled manpower,” he remarked.
In a heartfelt reflection on the shared history of the two countries, President Zardari spoke of the pain of separation in 1971 and the need to “heal old wounds.” He emphasized reconciliation and mutual understanding, a message that resonated strongly with the audience.
Recognizing cricket as a powerful medium for bringing people together, he said, “I am happy to host you all in Pakistan. I hope to see many more such visits in the future.”
President Zardari also expressed a desire to visit Bangladesh, recalling fond memories from his school days at Cadet College Petaro and his enduring friendships with Bangladeshi classmates.
He assured the Bangladeshi High Commissioner of his full support in enhancing bilateral ties and wished both cricket teams success. “The world is young, and so are you. This is your time. May you all have a bright and eventful future,” he told the players.
The president posed for group photos with the teams and presented commemorative souvenirs to members of the visiting Bangladesh contingent. He also received a memento from PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in recognition of the occasion.
