Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi affirmed unequivocally that the National Assembly would not dissolve prematurely, regardless of any external pressure. He assured that general elections were scheduled for July this year during a discussion with a media delegation in Islamabad on Tuesday.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the people had entrusted the mandate to the PML (N) party, and he pledged not to dissolve the Assembly ahead of its designated time. However, he did offer his counsel if the party sought it.
With unwavering confidence, the Prime Minister anticipated victory for the ruling party in the 2018 elections, citing their robust performance and commitment to their developmental agenda. This agenda notably included the initiation of numerous projects within the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, including the completion of the first Industrial Zone in Gwadar and ongoing work on the Express Bay project.
Addressing inquiries about diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister revealed that ongoing engagement with the United States, including track two diplomacy, was in progress. He emphasized Pakistan's stance of not having further expectations from the United States.
Regarding national security, the Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's dedication to combating terrorism in its own interest.
Discussing the Afghan conflict, he proposed a peaceful resolution through dialogue and called on the United States to assist in the repatriation of over three million Afghan refugees to their homeland for lasting peace.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister underlined that normalization of relations between Pakistan and India hinged on the resolution of the Kashmir dispute.