ISLAMABAD / HARIPUR: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday emphasised that Pakistan’s progress depends on the uplift of all federating units, saying national development could not be achieved by focusing on any single province while neglecting others.
Addressing a ceremony at the University of Haripur, where he distributed 500 laptops among students from various universities across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the prime minister said inclusive development was essential for long-term stability and prosperity.
“Whether it is the distribution of laptops, training students in agriculture, or sending young people abroad for higher studies, Pakistan’s development does not rely on one province alone,” he said. “It depends on holistic progress across all regions.”
The prime minister reiterated his government’s focus on youth empowerment, describing students as the country’s most valuable asset. He said providing young people with opportunities based on merit and capability would enable them to compete at the global level and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.
“The future of Pakistan lies in the hands of our youth,” he said, adding that they possessed the talent and potential to excel internationally if given the right support.
Mr Sharif also paid tribute to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly those from the Hazara division, for their resilience in the face of terrorism and security challenges. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by police, law enforcement agencies and the armed forces, crediting them for safeguarding the country during difficult times.
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Referring to regional security, the prime minister touched upon the recent conflict with India, saying Pakistan’s armed forces had effectively defended the country. He praised the people of KP for their patriotism and support for national defence efforts.
Turning to economic issues, the prime minister said the country had faced serious financial challenges but had managed to avert default through difficult decisions. He said the government’s next priority was to accelerate economic growth by investing in human capital and modern skills.
He highlighted sectors such as information technology, agriculture and mining as key areas where skill development was urgently needed. The prime minister announced plans to send delegations of students and professionals from all provinces to China for training in artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.
“It is my firm belief that Pakistan’s development does not rely on any single province,” he says. https://t.co/WeYa09hoxH
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) December 18, 2025
Earlier, newly elected MNA from Haripur Babar Nawaz raised concerns about educational challenges in the constituency, particularly for female students, and called for the establishment of a women’s campus at Haripur University.
Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam, who also addressed the ceremony, said the government’s engagement with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Hazara reflected its commitment to inclusive national development.
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