Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently faced backlash after claiming his name would cease to exist if Pakistan does not surpass India in economic development. During a rally in Dera Ghazi Khan, he animatedly expressed his dedication to improving the country’s situation, but his comments about defeating India drew criticism. Sharif, who emphasized his commitment to his late brother Nawaz Sharif, swore that he would work tirelessly for Pakistan’s greatness. His statements have sparked ridicule on social media, highlighting skepticism surrounding his promises amid Pakistan’s ongoing economic struggles and debt crisis. Less than two weeks prior, he had urged dialogue with India.
New Delhi:
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif finds himself in a precarious position following a bold statement that could jeopardize his reputation. Known for his passionate and sometimes fiery speeches at rallies, Mr. Sharif declared that his name would vanish if Pakistan fails to surpass India in economic growth and development.
During a recent public rally in Dera Ghazi Khan, located in Punjab province, Mr. Sharif exhibited considerable enthusiasm, raising his fists and arms in the air while occasionally jumping at the podium, engaging in considerable chest thumping and pounding the desk.
While assuring the audience of his government’s commitment to addressing the needs of everyday citizens, Mr. Sharif stated, “We will labor tirelessly to improve the conditions in Pakistan. The Almighty has consistently favored Pakistan.” However, following this statement, he seemed to experience a surge of adrenaline, adding, “If our efforts do not lead to Pakistan outpacing India, my name will no longer be Shehbaz Sharif.”
He further emphasized his devotion by swearing on his elder brother, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s life, declaring, “I am a fan of Nawaz Sharif, his devoted follower. Today, I swear on his blessed life that as long as I have the strength and will, we will unite to elevate Pakistan to greatness and vanquish India.”
🛑🛑 If I don’t vanquish India, my name is not Shehbaz Sharif.
We will surpass regional competitors like India in economic development.
— Pakistan’s Prime Minister
👉 Ek din isko heart attack aa jayega jitna panic hokar bolta hai. 😂😂😂👇 pic.twitter.com/IN0Cy2EQbm
— Naren Mukherjee (@NMukherjee6) February 23, 2025
Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Dera Ghazi Khan aimed to reassure the populace of his government’s dedication to tackle their economic and social concerns. During the trip, he reportedly announced several crucial infrastructure initiatives for the region. Pakistan has been grappling with a significant financial crisis for years, bearing the weight of immense international debt, which has necessitated austere measures to ensure repayment.
Following his widely circulated speech on social media, Mr. Sharif faced considerable backlash. Many accused him of making lofty promises devoid of any tangible results. Several users on X even ridiculed the Pakistani Prime Minister.
Less than two weeks prior to his pledge to “defeat India,” Mr. Sharif had advocated for the resumption of dialogue with New Delhi. India has reiterated that for any discussions to take place, Pakistan must eliminate terrorism from its territory. “Talks and terror cannot coexist,” stated India’s Ministry of External Affairs.