Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday stressed the need for national unity to confront challenges including terrorism and extremism, saying collective resolve is more important now than ever.

He was speaking to members of the Qaumi Paigham-e-Aman Committee, who called on him in Islamabad.

The prime minister expressed confidence that the committee would play a pivotal role in reinforcing the national narrative against extremism and terrorism, recalling the historic role of Ulema and Mashaekh during the creation of Pakistan.

PM Shehbaz said Pakistan was founded on the principles of peace, justice and tolerance, and called for forging unity to safeguard these values.

He also commended the contribution of minorities to the country’s development, particularly in education, health and defence.

The prime minister paid tribute to Cecil Chaudhry and former chief justice Rana Bhagwandas, describing their services as unforgettable and a source of pride for the nation.

Referring to the country’s economic potential, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan had been blessed with vast natural resources worth trillions of dollars. He said effective exploration of these resources could help overcome poverty, unemployment and debt.

He said Pakistan was steadily moving towards prosperity and stability, but underscored the urgent need to eliminate terrorism once and for all.

Highlighting sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism, the prime minister said Pakistan demonstrated its strength during Marka-e-Haq in May 2025, when it decisively defeated India.

He attributed the outcome to divine blessings and the professional capabilities of the armed forces under the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

PM Shehbaz said the international community should acknowledge Pakistan’s sacrifices, adding that the country possessed solid evidence of external support being extended to terrorist elements operating within its borders.

He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to defeat terrorism through a unified national effort.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar said the national narrative to curb terrorism and promote peace and stability would be further strengthened.

He said members of the Qaumi Paigham-e-Aman Committee would visit cities across the country to spread a message of peace and counter hate-based narratives.

Convener of the committee Maulana Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, Allama Ragib Naeemi and other Ulema reiterated their full support for the government’s efforts to eliminate terrorism and extremism.