Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari extended New Year greetings to the nation on Wednesday, expressing hopes for peace, progress, and prosperity in 2025.

In a statement, PM Shehbaz said, “I pray that 2025 will be a year of good fortune and immense happiness for our nation.”

“My prayer is that the sun of 2025 rises with the promise of progress and prosperity for Pakistan,” he remarked, urging the nation to begin the year with renewed determination to build a stable and thriving future.

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The prime minister highlighted significant progress in 2024, noting improvements in economic indicators and enhanced international confidence in Pakistan. He cited the signing of investment agreements worth billions of rupees with friendly countries and the commencement of work on economic digitization as key milestones.

“We officially launched the National Economic Transformation Plan, ‘Udan Pakistan,’ which reflects our commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development,” he said. “As we enter 2025, our economy is on the track of self-reliance, and we resolve for a stable, bright, and prosperous future.”

Challenges and hopes

The premier also touched upon global and regional challenges, condemning Israeli atrocities in Palestine and human rights violations in Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He expressed hope for the success of liberation struggles in these regions.

He lauded the sacrifices of Pakistan’s security forces in the fight against terrorism, noting their pivotal role in securing the nation. “The brave soldiers of our security forces laid down their lives, and their sacrifices will forever be remembered,” he said.

Shehbaz urged the nation to honor the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal by uniting for Pakistan’s development. “This country is a trust from our ancestors. Let us commit to safeguarding, building, and advancing it with our utmost effort, he continued.

President Zardari’s message

President Asif Ali Zardari also extended New Year greetings to the nation and the global community. He expressed hope for peace, stability, and prosperity in 2025.

“The new year should mark a renewed commitment to unity, discipline, and hard work,” he stated, stressing the importance of empowering youth and addressing challenges faced by the underprivileged segments of society.

President Zardari urged the nation to reflect on past achievements and failures, learn from history, and move forward with resolve. “Let us reaffirm our commitment to public service, peace, and stability,” he said, praying for a year of growth and harmony for Pakistan.

Nationwide celebrations

The arrival of 2025 was marked with vibrant celebrations across Pakistan. Fireworks lit up the skies in major cities, including Karachi, Islamabad, and Lahore, as citizens welcomed the new year with enthusiasm.

Despite administrative restrictions, reports of aerial firing emerged in several areas. Celebrations in Karachi’s Bahria Town and Islamabad’s Centaurus Mall attracted large crowds, while similar festivities were observed in other cities.