NEW YORK (special crosspondent) – Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has announced that Pakistan has achieved significant macroeconomic stability, successfully curbing inflation and enhancing export capacity. Addressing a gathering of Pakistani-Americans in New York on Sunday, the Minister outlined the government’s commitment to sustained progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following a period of profound financial instability. The session, organized by the Consulate General of Pakistan and moderated by Acting Consul General Umar Sheikh, was attended by a broad cross-section of the diaspora, including students and business leaders. Notable figures present included Former Defence Minister Khurram Dastgir and Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh.

Strategic Achievements and National Pride

Minister Iqbal reflected on recent regional developments, praising the performance of Pakistan’s armed forces under the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir during the military confrontation with India in May 2025. He further emphasized the efficacy of Pakistan’s diplomatic mediation, which facilitated a Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, effectively ending hostilities. The Minister described these milestones as pivotal, stating they represent a source of immense national pride and have elevated Pakistan’s stature within the international community.

The URAAN Pakistan Initiative and 5Es Framework

While noting that the nation is currently experiencing favorable economic conditions, Minister Iqbal cautioned against complacency. He introduced the “URAAN Pakistan” initiative, a strategic roadmap aimed at transitioning the country into a $1 trillion economy by 2035 and reaching $3 trillion by 2047. Central to this strategy is the “5Es” framework, which focuses on:

• Expanding annual exports to $100 billion, with prioritized investment in IT and agricultural modernization.
• Accelerating the digitization of the economy and promoting tech-based entrepreneurship.
• Developing climate resilience to safeguard national infrastructure.
• Establishing sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy systems.
• Promoting inclusive growth through the empowerment of youth.

Policy Continuity and Economic Prosperity

Addressing the challenges of the past, Minister Iqbal noted that political instability and frequent policy shifts have historically hindered national progress. He argued that the era of political agitation must give way to a concentrated effort toward economic development. “We must prioritize policy continuity to attract foreign investment and put the country on the road to prosperity,” he remarked. The Minister concluded by urging the diaspora to foster unity and contribute positively to Pakistan’s image abroad, while encouraging businessmen to capitalize on emerging investment opportunities within the country.

Reflecting on the nation’s trajectory, Former Defence Minister Khurram Dastgir noted that Pakistan is on the upswing, highlighting that the recent normalization in US-Pakistan relations remains a significant accomplishment, particularly in the wake of the regional security challenges witnessed in May. The proceedings began with an address of welcome delivered by Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh.