Economic and security challenges top Shehbaz Sharif's agenda as Pakistan's new PM

National security and foreign relations

Also figuring high on his agenda is security, which remains a pressing concern for Pakistan, with internal strife, terrorism, and regional tensions posing significant threats to stability and peace.

Shehbaz Sharif's government must prioritise national security, strengthen law enforcement agencies, and bolster counter-terrorism efforts to safeguard the nation and its citizens.

His track record in maintaining law and order during his previous tenure as Chief Minister of Punjab demonstrates his commitment to security and stability.

Shehbaz Sharif faces a complex array of diplomatic challenges on the international front. Pakistan's relations with neighbouring countries, particularly India and Afghanistan, remain strained, with longstanding disputes and territorial conflicts exacerbating tensions.

Shehbaz's pragmatic approach to foreign policy — centred on dialogue, cooperation, and conflict resolution — offers a potential pathway to peace and stability in the region. His extensive network of international contacts and diplomatic experience will be instrumental in navigating Pakistan's foreign relations.

Amidst Pakistan's myriad challenges, Shehbaz Sharif's government must prioritise national reconciliation and unity. Political polarization and ideological divisions have hampered progress and hindered efforts to address the nation's pressing issues.

Shehbaz's inclusive leadership style and commitment to consensus-building offer hope for bridging the political divide and fostering a spirit of cooperation among all stakeholders.

By fostering a culture of dialogue and cooperation, Shehbaz's government can pave the way for meaningful progress and sustainable development in Pakistan

Allegations of election rigging and concerns about political accountability have also come to the forefront of Pakistan's political landscape. Addressing these concerns requires a concerted effort to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure the separation of powers.

The opposition parties' claims of manipulation by powerful institutions point to a broader problem that needs to be addressed to uphold the principles of democracy in Pakistan.

Substantial achievements

Reflecting on PML-N's previous tenure, it is important to note the substantial achievements under Nawaz Sharif's leadership.

When PML-N came to power in 2013, Pakistan faced significant challenges, including the aftermath of the war against terrorism and extensive load shedding of electricity.

Sharif's government tackled these challenges head-on, significantly reducing load shedding and addressing other pressing issues.

Despite these accomplishments, challenges remain, and the success of Shehbaz's leadership will be measured by his ability to navigate Pakistan through turbulent times.

As the political landscape unfolds, Shehbaz Sharif is expected to continue the legacy of his brother Nawaz Sharif.

His pursuit of reimagining Pakistan as an economic powerhouse stands at a crucial juncture. As the nation faces challenges on multiple fronts, Shehbaz's leadership has the potential to shape the trajectory of Pakistan's future.

Whether he can secure the needed support, navigate internal party issues, and garner military backing remains to be seen, but his election as premier is a potential turning point in Pakistan's complex political landscape.

Shehbaz Sharif's return to power heralds a new chapter in Pakistan's political landscape, characterised by resilience, resolve, and renewal.

As he embarks on his second term as prime minister, the nation stands at a critical juncture, with formidable challenges and daunting obstacles ahead.

However, with determination, vision, and a steadfast commitment to the welfare of the people, Shehbaz Sharif has the potential to leave a lasting legacy of progress and prosperity in Pakistan, resonating not only within the country but also on the global stage.

He will work hard to steer Pakistan — a nuclear power with a 240 million Muslim majority population—  out of armed confrontation.

Pakistan's fragile economy faces mounting pressure with plummeting exports and a complete halt in foreign direct investment, a situation largely attributed to the country's turbulent political climate and deteriorating security situation.

The newly installed government desperately needs an emergency $bn bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stave off economic collapse.

The burning question is whether Shehbaz's coalition government has the capacity to negotiate vital IMF assistance and rise to the immense challenge of stabilising the nation's economy.

Financial experts underscore Pakistan's urgent need to restart stalled negotiations with the IMF. The country has significant financial commitments to the IMF that are rapidly coming due.

Failure to secure an agreement with the IMF could have disastrous consequences for the nation's economy.

Time is of the essence, and the Sharif-led government has to address this economic crisis immediately. The success of their efforts to pull Pakistan back from the brink remains uncertain.