Shehbaz Sharif Hails Unity in ‘Historic Victory’ Against India

London: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday underlined the Significance of unity and Solidarity in securing Pakistan’s “emphatic triumph” during the recent armed conflict with India, pledging to steer the Nation toward Progress and Prosperity.

Addressing overseas Pakistanis in London, the Premier Congratulated them on what he called the “great victory of May 10” against India. He said the Confrontation, sparked after New Delhi’s accusations over the Pahalgam incident, ended with Pakistan downing six Indian fighter jets and demonstrating National resolve.

Sharif recalled that he had offered an international probe into India’s Allegations during his visit to Kakul, but India “failed to respond.” He said the decisive response of Pakistan’s armed forces, under the leadership of COAS General Syed Asim Munir and the Air Force, reflected unmatched Professionalism and courage, backed by the unity of 240 million citizens.

The prime minister stressed that this collective strength, coupled with achievements on diplomatic and economic fronts, had elevated Pakistan’s global standing. “Now the green passport is being adorned worldwide,” he said, adding that Pakistan sought peace with India but reiterated that durable ties were impossible without resolving the Kashmir dispute.

On Gaza, he voiced grief over the deaths of more than 64,000 people and urged the Muslim world and international community to act decisively to address the humanitarian crisis.

Highlighting economic progress, Sharif lauded overseas Pakistanis as “ambassadors of the nation,” acknowledging their role in sending $38.5 billion in remittances last year. He said Pakistan must reduce reliance on loans, embrace hard work, and leverage its youth bulge—60 percent of the population—through IT training and skills development.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar credited Sharif’s leadership with averting default in 2022 and reviving economic stability, while noting Pakistan’s successful bid for a non-permanent UN Security Council seat.

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif described India’s defeat as “unprecedented” and lauded the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia defence pact as a landmark achievement. Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain praised the diaspora for strengthening Pakistan’s global profile.

Sharif concluded by stressing that unity must remain the nation’s foremost priority as Pakistan pursues peace, economic strength, and global partnerships.