President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have conveyed New Year greetings to the nation, calling for unity, economic responsibility and collective effort as Pakistan enters 2026.
In his New Year address, President Zardari urged citizens and political stakeholders to renew their commitment to protecting the country’s common future amid rising global and internal challenges. He observed that Pakistan was nearing its 79th Independence Day during a period demanding deep reflection and shared determination.
Highlighting a global environment shaped by wars, proxy conflicts, extremism, economic instability, climate crises and social polarisation, the president said Pakistan was affected by these pressures but was not powerless. He stressed that unity, resilience, innovation and faith were vital to confronting these challenges.
Discussing economic matters, President Zardari said worldwide inflation, debt burdens, supply chain issues and technological competition made economic sovereignty essential, built on discipline rather than denial. He emphasised prioritising productivity over populism, exports over excuses and inclusive growth over crony capitalism, while urging long-term investment in education, healthcare, youth development, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
He warned that climate change had evolved into a national security threat, pointing to floods, droughts, water shortages and extreme heat as recurring realities. According to the president, climate adaptation must progress alongside mitigation to safeguard both lives and livelihoods.
On domestic politics, President Zardari said democracy flourished through disagreement handled with responsibility and civility. He encouraged political forces to participate constructively in Parliament and warned against allowing political movements to be exploited by hostile actors seeking to destabilise the country or promote terrorism.
“This is not the time to turn on the heat. It is time to turn on the light,” he said.
As the constitutional symbol of national unity, the president expressed his willingness to lead a process of reconciliation and healing to bridge political divides and rebuild trust among democratic forces, stressing that cooperation was essential for Pakistan’s progress.
Referring to recent security challenges, he said national unity and the professionalism of the armed forces ensured the defence of Pakistan’s sovereignty. While reiterating Pakistan’s desire for peace, he stressed that national defence was non-negotiable and that any existential threat would be confronted with full resolve.
The president also voiced concern over what he described as India’s “weaponisation of water,” calling it a breach of international agreements and law, and said Pakistan reserved the right to address the matter through all available means.
On foreign relations, President Zardari said Pakistan would continue acting as a responsible member of the global community and a stabilising force through bilateral and multilateral engagement. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to resolve all outstanding disputes with India peacefully, including Jammu and Kashmir in accordance with international commitments. He also urged Afghanistan’s de facto authorities to uphold the Doha Accord and prevent Afghan soil from being used against neighbouring countries.
Expressing hope for the resolution of global conflicts, including the Ukraine-Russia war, the president reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people and their right to an independent and sovereign state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.
Calling for restraint instead of anger, unity over division and renewal over despair, he concluded with the words: “Pakistan Zindabad.”
PM outlines govt’s roadmap for 2026
In his New Year message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised the resilience and sacrifices of the Pakistani people, paid tribute to the armed forces, and laid out the government’s vision for a stable, self-reliant and prosperous Pakistan.
In a post on X, the prime minister extended greetings to Pakistanis at home and abroad, reflecting on the past year as one that challenged the nation but ultimately reinforced its strength and optimism.
“The past year has tested our nation in many ways, but it has also reaffirmed our collective strength and self-belief,” the prime minister stated.
He said economic stabilisation and renewed confidence were achieved through “perseverance, discipline, and difficult yet necessary decisions,” placing the country on a path toward sustainable growth.
“These achievements are the result of the hard work, patience, and sacrifices of the Pakistani people.
I salute you for your resilience and your faith in the future of our country,” PM Shehbaz said.
The prime minister paid special tribute to the armed forces, praising their courage in responding to aggression and combating terrorism both militarily and diplomatically. Commending the military leadership, he said, “Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir demonstrated exemplary military leadership that the whole world has come to respect and admire.”
He added, “We are immensely proud of our army, air force and navy who taught our enemy that wars are won with heart and not by hubris.”
Detailing the government’s economic priorities, PM Shehbaz highlighted measures to strengthen economic fundamentals, improve governance and expand social protection. He said progress had been made through fiscal discipline, structural reforms and renewed momentum in investment, exports and energy security.
According to the prime minister, the government’s efforts were driven by the goal of ensuring opportunity and dignity for every citizen. He identified innovation, technology and human capital as central pillars of national development, with focused investments in education, digital transformation and emerging technologies.
“Sustainable growth begins with opportunity and hope for our young people.
From agriculture and industry to information technology and renewable energy, we are determined to raise productivity, encourage innovation, and create jobs,” PM Shehbaz stated.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving Pakistan’s cultural and spiritual heritage and to promoting inclusive growth through stronger social safety nets, better healthcare and improved education.
On foreign policy, the prime minister said Pakistan would continue engaging the international community responsibly, advocating peace, regional stability and a rules-based global 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 motherland stand tall in dignity and strength.
May our fields yield abundance, our homes be filled with peace, and our nation move forward in the light of hope and opportunity,” the prime minister 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.
The journey may be long, but our resolve is firm. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones,” he added.
