Pakistan's premier calls for choosing sound economic policies over 'chaos'

By Aamir Latif

KARACHI, Pakistan (AA) - Pakistan's prime minister said Sunday that his countrymen have rejected the "politics of polarization" and chosen sound economic policies that address inflation and improve their living standards.

Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks referred to recent nationwide rallies by the country’s main opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), aiming to pressure the government to release jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Khan is languishing in a prison in the northeastern garrison city of Rawalpindi seeking bail in multiple cases ranging from corruption to terrorism. He denies the allegations.

In a statement, Sharif said the people of Pakistan want a reduction in inflation, solutions to their problems and economic betterment instead of "chaos."

"Instead of filling up the grounds with people for rallies, it is high time to concentrate on addressing people’s economic concerns," he added, calling for a "shift" in political priorities.

"We will hold rallies in 2028, but right now, it is time to work hard to fulfill the pledges made to the people,” he said, referring to the next general elections following the completion of his government 's five-year term.

Linking the success of the country’s economic recovery directly to political stability, he warned that political chaos would disrupt efforts to provide relief to the public.

“Economic recovery is tied to political stability. Political chaos means affecting the process of providing relief to the people,” he said.

Pakistan is currently negotiating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for another bailout package worth over $7 billion to prop up the country's economy.

“Thank God, inflation has returned to single digits, and the economic situation is improving,” he said, highlighting key macroeconomic indicators such as rising exports, a stable currency, increased remittances and monetary easing as reasons behind his optimism.