Islamabad : As Pakistan rang in 2026, both President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif shared heartfelt messages of goodwill, wishing peace, progress, and collective well-being for Pakistanis, both at home and abroad, as well as for the international community.
In their New Year’s addresses, both leaders highlighted the importance of unity and national cohesion, recalling the solidarity shown by the nation during the May 2025 conflict with India. They reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to contributing to peace both regionally and globally, while voicing strong support for the oppressed people of Palestine and those living under Indian Occupation in Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
President Zardari emphasized the need for unity and democratic responsibility as Pakistan enters 2026. He urged citizens and political leaders to prioritize economic discipline, underlining that the country must move forward by focusing on practical solutions rather than denial.
In his message, the president noted that Pakistan is nearing its 79th Independence Day, a moment for deep reflection, renewed commitment, and shared purpose amidst the growing internal and external pressures the country faces. He acknowledged the difficult global environment, shaped by wars, extremism, economic instability, and climate crises, but reassured citizens that Pakistan remains resilient. He stressed that resilience, unity, and faith are vital in overcoming these challenges.
On the economic front, Zardari pointed to the urgent need for economic self-reliance through discipline. He stressed that prioritizing productivity, exports, and inclusive development was crucial to steering the nation out of its current difficulties. He also highlighted the worsening threat of climate change, emphasizing the importance of adaptive strategies alongside mitigation efforts.
Addressing Pakistan’s political landscape, Zardari called for civil discourse within Parliament, cautioning against the manipulation of political causes by destabilizing elements. He urged clarity and wisdom in dealing with political disputes, adding that the country’s progress depends on cooperation, not confrontation.
Zardari also reflected on the security challenges Pakistan had faced, thanking the unity of the people and the professionalism of the armed forces for securing the nation’s sovereignty. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering desire for peace but made it clear that the country’s defense was non-negotiable and would be defended with full resolve.
Turning to foreign relations, Zardari expressed Pakistan’s commitment to acting as a responsible member of the global community. He reiterated Pakistan’s willingness to resolve its disputes with India, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir issue, through peaceful dialogue in line with international agreements. He also called on the authorities in Afghanistan to honor the Doha Accord and prevent the use of Afghan soil against neighboring countries.
Zardari concluded his message with a call for unity, urging Pakistanis to focus on renewal and restraint, and ended with a heartfelt “Pakistan Zindabad.”
In his own message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commended the resilience of the nation and paid tribute to the martyrs, pledging to continue economic reforms and Pakistan’s pursuit of global peace in the year ahead. He expressed hope that 2026 would bring prosperity, happiness, and divine blessings to the people of Pakistan.
Reflecting on the previous year, Sharif described 2025 as a pivotal year in defending the homeland, commending the armed forces for their unwavering dedication and lauding the performance of Pakistan’s air defense system, which he noted was admired worldwide.
The prime minister reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to defend its sovereignty, while paying tribute to the lives lost in terrorist attacks over the past year, honoring their courage and sacrifice. On the economic front, he expressed confidence that improving economic indicators were a testament to the government’s correct policy direction. He committed to accelerating reforms to ensure visible prosperity for all Pakistanis.
Sharif, too, reiterated Pakistan’s firm commitment to peace, both regionally and internationally. He reaffirmed the country’s solidarity with the people of Kashmir and Palestine, expressing hope for an end to their struggles. The prime minister concluded by praying for the protection of Pakistan from terrorism, sectarianism, and internal discord, hoping that 2026 would usher in a new era of harmony, stability, and sustained progress.
