Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his congratulations to Pakistan's new Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, on Tuesday, as he officially assumed office for the second time following weeks of uncertainty after Pakistan's national elections.
In a message shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote, “Congratulations to @CMShehbaz on being sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan."
Shehbaz Sharif was officially sworn in during a ceremony held at the presidential office in Islamabad on Monday, despite protests from lawmakers aligned with jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Sharif's appointment comes after a prolonged period of uncertainty caused by delays in the formation of a coalition government following the national election.
Following his oath-taking ceremony, PM Shehbaz Sharif wasted no time in getting down to business, holding his first meeting with his finance team.
He directed them to initiate discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding an extended funding facility, as the current agreement is set to expire in April.
In his victory speech delivered in the National Assembly, Sharif expressed gratitude to his elder brother and three-time former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, as well as allies, for their trust and support.
He pledged to lead a coalition government that would prioritize the interests of the Pakistani people and maintain cordial relations with neighbouring countries based on principles of equality.
Despite stressing the importance of balanced foreign relations, Sharif addressed the longstanding Kashmir issue, drawing parallels with the situation in Palestine.
The February 8 election, marred by controversy and allegations of rigging, ultimately resulted in the formation of a coalition government between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), despite candidates backed by Imran Khan securing the most seats.
While Nawaz Sharif opted not to take the prime ministerial position, his brother Shehbaz Sharif has now assumed leadership, promising to address key issues facing the nation.
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