'Charter of democracy': PM Shehbaz once again invites opposition for dialogue

• No dispute over provinces' constitutional right to resources: PM.
• Adds politics may differ but Pakistan's interests come first.
• Political disputes should be settled through dialogue: Achakzai.
  

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday once again invited the opposition to sit together for "Charter of Economy and a Charter of Democracy," stressing that national unity and Pakistan's interests must remain above political differences.

"I have said more than once that we should move towards a Charter of Economy and a Charter of Democracy," the premier said while addressing a National Assembly session a day after the federal budget for Fiscal Year 2026-27 was proposed.

He reiterated his invitation to the opposition, saying ensuring equal development across all four provinces was his responsibility as prime minister.

"We have no fight with PTI; they are all our brothers,” he said, noting that the House functions like a family and stressed that despite differing political views, Pakistan remains the common bond for all.

"Politics, vision and ideas may differ, but if Pakistan exists, we all exist," he said, adding that sacrifices made for the country can never be considered small.

Referring to provincial autonomy, the prime minister said there was no disagreement on the principle that provinces have full right over their resources.

Speaking on Balochistan, the prime minister said that farmers in the province had been provided solar panels worth Rs75 billion, while a major highway project from Gwadar to Chaman was underway at a cost of Rs300 billion.

He said the road was being constructed to highway standards, adding that it was part of the government’s responsibility rather than a demand from any political figure.

PM Shehbaz said that under the 2010 NFC Award, Balochistan's share had been increased by 100%. "This is not a favour; I am mentioning it only as a reminder," he added.

The prime minister also hailed sacrifices being made by the personnel of armed forces and law enforcement agencies, saying that 22 soldiers had embraced martyrdom three days earlier.

"Our armed forces and law enforcement agencies are fighting terrorists day and night,” he said, adding that officers and soldiers sacrifice their lives while protecting millions of citizens.

'Political disputes should be resolved via dialogue'

Opening the budget discussion, Leader of Opposition Mahmood Khan Achakzai said that political disputes should be resolved through dialogue.

He expressed willingness to extend unconditional support for the stability of the system and stressed that winning mandates should be respected.

"I tell [PM] Shehbaz Sharif that mistakes can be corrected," he said, adding that political leaders should sit together and move matters forward.

The opposition leader urged PM Shehbaz to strengthen parliament, saying it would benefit both the country and the public.

Criticising federal-provincial financial arrangements, he said the federation gives funds to provinces but has also taken back resources.

He also called for reducing "political pressure" on the PTI leadership. "Do not be so harsh on the PTI founder; this is not a good practice," he said.

Achakzai proposed a political agreement under which parties would avoid undermining each other, and the party winning elections would govern for five years without interference.

“There is no benefit in putting each other in jail,” he said, adding that even dialogue or meetings with political leaders should not be seen as controversial.