Pakistan's President Expresses Gratitude to Allies Amid Economic Challenges

In a recent address to a joint session of Pakistan's parliament, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed profound gratitude towards Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Turkiye for their unwavering support during Pakistan's economic hardships. He emphasized the nation's commitment to strengthening historical, cultural, and economic ties with these nations.

The president highlighted that debt rollovers from allies like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China have been pivotal in securing financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). These commitments facilitated the approval of a $7 billion IMF program last year, currently undergoing its first review. Additionally, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have extended support through loans and deferred oil payments, providing crucial relief to Pakistan's economy.

Addressing domestic issues, President Zardari acknowledged the recent surge in militancy, particularly in the Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. He lauded the efforts of Pakistan's armed forces in dismantling terror networks and paid tribute to the security personnel who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.

The president also noted the encouraging counterterrorism cooperation between Pakistan and the United States. He referred to the recent arrest of Mohammad Sharifullah, a key Daesh operative accused of planning the 2021 Kabul airport attack, as a testament to the effectiveness of this collaboration. President Zardari expressed hope that this success would pave the way for renewed and enhanced cooperation between the two countries to achieve joint security goals.

Despite the significance of the president's address, it was marred by loud chanting and sloganeering from opposition members throughout the session. This disruption highlighted the prevailing political tensions within the country's legislative framework.

In conclusion, President Zardari's speech underscored the critical role of international alliances and internal resilience in navigating Pakistan through its current economic and security challenges. His acknowledgment of both external support and internal efforts reflects a comprehensive approach to addressing the nation's pressing issues.