Mon Feb 24 12:25:23 UTC 2025: ## Pakistan PM Sharif Vows to Economically Outpace India, Faces Backlash
**ISLAMABAD –** Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has sparked controversy after making a dramatic pledge to surpass India economically, stating his name would be changed if he fails to achieve this goal. During a highly animated rally in Dera Ghazi Khan, Punjab province, Sharif declared, “My name won’t be Shehbaz Sharif if, due to our efforts, Pakistan does not leave India behind in terms of development and progress.” He further emphasized this commitment by swearing on the life of his brother, former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.
Sharif’s impassioned speech, characterized by fist-pumping and chest-thumping, was ostensibly aimed at reassuring citizens about his government’s efforts to address Pakistan’s ongoing economic crisis, which is burdened by significant international debt. He announced new infrastructure projects in Dera Ghazi Khan as part of these efforts.
However, the bold declaration has drawn widespread criticism on social media, with many accusing Sharif of making unrealistic promises without providing concrete plans. The timing of the statement is particularly noteworthy, given Sharif’s recent call for renewed dialogue with India, a proposal India has conditioned on Pakistan’s eradication of terrorism. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has consistently maintained that talks and terror cannot coexist.
The conflicting messages – a desire for dialogue juxtaposed with a vow to economically defeat India – have fueled further debate about the viability of Sharif’s ambitious promises and the overall direction of Pakistan’s economic policy.
First Piper 