Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday claimed that his government has taken “tough and unprecedented” measures to eliminate corruption, including the immediate dismissal of corrupt officials from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

Speaking to students selected under the Uraan Pakistan Summer Scholars Programme in Islamabad, the prime minister emphasised that he was mentally prepared for the political pressures, phone calls, and recommendations that would come in the way of reforms.

“Corruption could not be tackled without stepping on some toes,” he said. “I was fully prepared for resistance. That’s why we removed officers from grades 20 to 22 without delay.”

The prime minister criticised the lack of real progress in FBR digitisation, calling previous efforts “paper promises” with no substantial implementation on the ground.

During his address, Shehbaz praised the Uraan Pakistan programme as a historic step to involve youth from across the country in national development.

“This initiative brings together talented students from every corner of Pakistan — the future of this nation,” he said, referring to them as a “galaxy of superstars” and commending their passion and intellect.

The programme, he noted, offers students practical exposure to governance, policymaking, and the functioning of state institutions — experiences he described as a “valuable national asset”.

Reflecting on the economic challenges his government inherited, Shehbaz Sharif recalled the precarious situation when he assumed office.

“Pakistan was on the brink of default. Many believed we were headed for default,” he said, referencing his 2023 visit to Paris where the global outlook on Pakistan was bleak.

“But I had faith that with sincere efforts and the help of Allah, we would prevail.”

He shared that a crucial meeting with the IMF managing director paved the way for a new short-term bailout, helping stabilise the economy.

“We worked closely with ministers, bureaucrats, and economic experts to formulate a recovery roadmap,” he said. “Though it was difficult, teamwork and sincerity produced results.”

The prime minister acknowledged that implementing the economic reform plan remains a challenge, but expressed confidence that the government, with continued unity and commitment, would overcome obstacles.

He concluded by congratulating the youth, institutional stakeholders, and economic partners for their role in pushing Pakistan forward.

“Despite the difficulties, Pakistan is moving ahead — the journey of progress continues,” he affirmed.