ISLAMABAD, December 11, 2025 – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared on Wednesday that Pakistan cannot achieve lasting economic development unless terrorism, extremism, and sectarianism are completely eliminated, calling on religious scholars to actively promote unity and brotherhood across all schools of thought.
Speaking at the National Ulema Conference alongside Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the premier stressed that national cohesion remains essential for the country’s progress and prosperity.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Addresses the National Ullema Convention
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif stated that creating an atmosphere of national cohesion is essential for ensuring the country’s prosperity and future progress. He said, Chief of Army Staff and… pic.twitter.com/B88jsVztrj
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) December 10, 2025
Key Highlights
- PM Sharif: Sustainable economic growth impossible without total eradication of terrorism and sectarianism
- Religious scholars urged to discourage division and foster harmony among all sects
- Premier praises armed forces’ “great victory in Marka-i-Haq” against India; world and Muslim countries acknowledge Pakistan’s success
- Field Marshal Munir: In an Islamic state, only the state can declare jihad
- CDF announces historic defence agreement with Saudi Arabia; stresses deep Pakistan-Saudi ties
- Both leaders warn against propaganda targeting the armed forces
Religious Scholars’ Role in National Unity
Prime Minister Sharif told the gathering — attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers, parliamentarians, and ulema from every school of thought — that creating an atmosphere of unity is vital for realizing Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision. He highlighted the political and military leadership’s joint efforts to steer Pakistan away from the brink of default and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to austerity and collective progress.
Field Marshal Munir Calls for Broader Vision
Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Munir urged the clerics to help broaden the people’s vision and strengthen national solidarity. Emphasizing that terrorism is alien to Pakistan’s way, he said the country confronts its enemies openly, unlike those who strike from the shadows.
Islamabad : Chief of the Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir addresses National Ulema Conference. pic.twitter.com/XLxkFzjoH3
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) December 10, 2025
The army chief termed the new defence pact with Saudi Arabia a historic milestone and underlined the importance of education, warning that abandoning knowledge leaves the pen vulnerable to chaos.
The conference sent a strong message of unity: Pakistan stands determined to defeat extremism through faith, knowledge, and solidarity — paving the way for the economic revival the nation seeks.
