Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again extended an invitation to the opposition for dialogue, saying that opposition members are “our brothers” and there is no conflict with them. He urged political parties to come together for a Charter of Democracy and a Charter of Economy in the national interest.

Addressing the National Assembly during the budget session, the Prime Minister said all lawmakers deserve respect, noting that members elected from all four provinces represent diverse political views, visions, and perspectives.

Reiterating his call for political engagement, Shehbaz Sharif said he had repeatedly invited the opposition to sit together and work toward consensus on key national issues. “I am once again inviting the opposition for talks. It is not too late. I am ready to move forward and sit together for the sake of the country and the nation. You should also step forward,” he said.

The Prime Minister stressed that Pakistan’s stability is a shared responsibility and that provinces have a rightful claim to economic resources. He noted that Balochistan’s share under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award had been increased by 100 percent, emphasizing that it was not a favor but the province’s due right. He added that all provinces contributed to the decision, with Punjab providing the largest share, while billions of rupees worth of solar panels had also been provided to farmers in Balochistan.

During his speech, the Prime Minister said Pakistan’s strength and prosperity depend on national unity and equal development across all provinces. He described Balochistan as a beautiful province inhabited by brave and dignified people and reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring equitable development.

Referring to a speech delivered by opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Shehbaz Sharif said he had listened to it carefully but would respond in detail at an appropriate time.

The Prime Minister further stated that justice and equality are essential for any society to function effectively and that it is his responsibility to ensure balanced development throughout the country.

Highlighting security concerns, he mentioned the recent helicopter crash in which military officers and personnel embraced martyrdom. He said terrorism continues to affect Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, alleging that militants operating in Balochistan are receiving technical assistance from external elements.

Shehbaz Sharif said the government is investing more than Rs300 billion in the construction of the highway from Gwadar to Chaman and reaffirmed that security forces are continuing their fight against terrorism despite ongoing sacrifices.

Paying tribute to the country’s martyrs, the Prime Minister said their sacrifices protect millions of Pakistani children from becoming orphans. He urged the nation to collectively honor the sacrifices made by security personnel, warning that negligence in the fight against terrorism would not be forgiven by the people.