PM Again Invites Opposition to Dialogue for Strengthening Economy, Democracy
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 20th Aug, 2026)
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday once again invited the opposition to engage in constructive dialogue, emphasizing that political matters should be resolved through talks for the further strengthening of Pakistan’s economy and democracy.
Chairing a meeting of the federal cabinet, the prime minister stated that his government has consistently shown readiness for dialogue and he had repeatedly expressed this stance both on the floor of the National Assembly and before the cabinet.
"I once again invite the opposition to come and sit together. Matters should be resolved through dialogue so that Pakistan’s economy and democracy can be further strengthened," he said, adding that it was now up to the opposition to decide when they were ready for constructive engagement.
The prime minister also welcomed a reduction of Rs 32 per litre in diesel prices, attributing this achievement to the challenging global situation and disruptions in oil supplies. He acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Petroleum and its team in securing this reduction, highlighting that as a net energy importer, Pakistan is particularly vulnerable to international energy supply disruptions.
Referring to the ongoing tensions in the Gulf and around the Strait of Hormuz, he noted severe disruptions in oil supplies and closures of refineries and gas plants in various countries. "The region is passing through a difficult time, and Pakistan, being a net importer of energy, is specifically affected by the situation," he said.
The prime minister recalled the federal government’s arrangement of Rs128 billion to help control oil prices following the conflict’s outbreak, with provinces subsequently contributing as well. He expressed hope for an improvement in the regional situation in coming weeks and assured that Pakistan would continue playing its role in efforts to reduce tensions and ensure stability.
Highlighting recent positive economic developments, he stated that government measures were gradually producing results but needed to be sustained to return economic conditions to normal. Referring to the launch of a retailer application, he noted it was done in consultation with the trading community and directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) not to inconvenience traders unnecessarily, emphasizing business consensus on the matter.
The prime minister also congratulated the Ministry of IT and Telecommunications and its team for an 18% increase in IT exports in July 2026, describing it as a positive development for Pakistan’s digital economy.
