Former prime minister and PML-N president Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday questioned the pace of development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while highlighting his party’s efforts in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Addressing a meeting of the party’s Gilgit-Baltistan parliamentary board in Murree, Nawaz asked what progress had been made in the province over the past 15 years, particularly in education and healthcare.

“What has happened in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa? Are there adequate education and health facilities?” he said, also questioning the availability of basic public services.

He credited the current government led by Shehbaz Sharif for giving special attention to Gilgit-Baltistan, citing road projects worth Rs60 billion that have reduced travel distances in the region.

Nawaz said development in Gilgit-Baltistan is the right of its people and pointed to the area’s tourism potential, noting that improved facilities could attract visitors from around the world.

He maintained that the PML-N believes in practical measures and said the federal government and Punjab are leading in development.

“Other provinces should also follow Punjab’s example,” he added, urging Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to accelerate progress.

Highlighting foreign policy gains, Nawaz said Pakistan’s international standing has improved significantly.

“Pakistan’s name has been elevated at the diplomatic level,” he said, adding that the country’s “green passport” is gaining respect worldwide.

He credited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for playing a “historic role” in enhancing Pakistan’s global image and diplomatic outreach.

Referring to recent developments, Nawaz noted that Pakistan drew global attention after helping broker a ceasefire between the United States and Iran earlier this month. The move came shortly before a deadline set by US President Donald Trump, easing tensions and drawing international relief.

He said Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts, including engagement with Washington, helped secure a two-week ceasefire, giving space for dialogue.

Nawaz added that the initiative demonstrated Pakistan’s growing role in promoting regional stability.

He also warned that Gilgit-Baltistan’s budget should be used transparently for public welfare and not mismanaged, reaffirming the party’s commitment to development in the region.