Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday praised Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and other members of a high-level diplomatic delegation for exposing Indian propaganda and effectively presenting Pakistan’s position during their visits to the U.S., U.K. and Europe.
A statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office said the former foreign minister had met Sharif and briefed him on the outcomes of the delegation’s engagements during their diplomatic tour. Acknowledging the team’s efforts in promoting Pakistan’s narrative at a critical time, the prime minister praised the success of their diplomatic engagements.
Led by Bhutto-Zardari, the delegation visited various cities across the world over 11 days, presenting Pakistan’s stance on last month’s conflict with India. It urged the international community to hold India accountable for its increasingly aggressive stance and its potential to destabilize South Asia. Apart from Bhutto-Zardari, the delegation also included Hina Rabbani Khar, Sherry Rehman, Musadik Malik, Khurram Dastgir-Khan, Jalil Abbas Jilani, Tehmina Janjua, Bushra Anjum Butt and Syed Faisal Subzwari.
The prime minister hosted a dinner in their honor on Tuesday, saying Bhutto-Zardari had presented Pakistan’s viewpoint in an extremely effective manner. He congratulated the delegation for effectively, and powerfully, representing Pakistan’s perspective on the international stage. “You fought Pakistan’s case with the national spirit and returned successfully,” he said.
“They [delegation members] represented Pakistan’s stance with national zeal during their visit to the United States, United Kingdom and Europe and it was being acknowledged not only in Pakistan but also around the world,” Sharif said, per the statement. It noted they had presented Pakistan’s views on various issues, including the Pahalgam attacks and the Indus Waters Treaty.
“By the grace of Almighty Allah, with the prayers of the nation and due to the military professionalism of our brave armed forces, India had to pay a heavy price for its unjustified war hysteria,” he added.
During his address, the premier also discussed the government’s budget for FY2025-26, noting it had provided relief to all segments of society, including salaried individuals. He thanked all the allied parties, including the PPP, for their cooperation in the budget preparation process.
“I hope your guidance, cooperation, and suggestions will help us overcome both internal and external challenges, InshaAllah,” he concluded.