Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed hope that the temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran would evolve into a lasting and permanent truce, as Pakistan weighs observing a national ‘Youm-i-Tashakur’ (Thanksgiving Day) to mark its diplomatic success.
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According to sources in the Prime Minister’s Office, the government is considering observing the day on Friday in recognition of Pakistan’s widely acknowledged role in facilitating the ceasefire.
Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, the premier termed the development a “historic moment” and credited the government, state institutions, and the nation for their collective efforts in mediating between Washington and Tehran.
“I have not witnessed in my lifetime the level of appreciation Pakistan is receiving from international media,” he said, adding that the country’s diplomatic outreach had earned global recognition.
Cabinet members gave a standing ovation to the prime minister upon his arrival, with several ministers praising his leadership and Pakistan’s role in resolving a critical international crisis.
The prime minister also expressed gratitude to key regional partners, including China, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Egypt, and Qatar, for their support in advancing peace efforts. He further acknowledged the role of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in promoting regional stability.
“The leadership of friendly nations and the United States showed strategic foresight, patience, and wisdom in giving peace a chance,” he noted.
PM Shehbaz also thanked international partners for recognising Pakistan’s sincere diplomatic initiatives aimed at ensuring global peace.
Highlighting domestic measures, he said the government’s strategy — including a Rs129 billion oil subsidy — helped shield citizens from the economic fallout of the conflict, unlike in other regional countries.
He also appreciated the cooperation of provincial governments in supporting federal efforts on both economic and diplomatic fronts.
The prime minister concluded by expressing gratitude that the conflict did not escalate into a broader regional or global war, underscoring Pakistan’s role in promoting dialogue over confrontation.
