ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has warned that persistent political instability and policy inconsistency remain the biggest obstacles to Pakistan’s progress, stressing that the country’s repeated setbacks stem not from a lack of resources but from an inability to sustain long-term national direction.
Addressing a ceremony marking the launch of nationwide activities for the upcoming ‘Year of Quaid-i-Azam’, the minister said Pakistan possesses immense human and natural potential, yet has struggled to translate it into lasting economic and social development. He observed that frequent political disruptions, institutional weakness and abrupt policy reversals have repeatedly derailed national planning, preventing the country from achieving continuity in reforms.
Ahsan Iqbal said the Year of Quaid-i-Azam should not be treated as a symbolic celebration alone but as an opportunity for serious introspection. He emphasised the need to reconnect with the founding principles laid down by Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, particularly constitutionalism, democracy, merit, unity and discipline, which he described as essential pillars for national revival.
Highlighting the government’s development roadmap titled ‘Quaid’s Pakistan — Uraan Pakistan’, the planning minister said the framework aims to transform Pakistan into a competitive, trillion-dollar economy through a clear execution strategy. He explained that the plan rests on five key pillars, including export-led growth, digital transformation, social equity and empowerment, environmental sustainability, and energy and infrastructure development. However, he cautioned that none of these goals can be achieved without political stability and policy continuity.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s 77-year history, Ahsan Iqbal said the nation’s progress has always coincided with periods of unity and discipline, while division and intolerance have pushed it backwards. He reminded the audience that Quaid-i-Azam had repeatedly warned against corruption, nepotism and disorder, calling them existential threats to the state.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, also speaking at the event, said initiatives like the Year of Quaid-i-Azam help the younger generation better understand the founder’s life, leadership and constitutional struggle. He noted that Quaid-i-Azam’s vision remains highly relevant in today’s challenging political and economic climate.
As Pakistan embarks on a year dedicated to reflection and national purpose, speakers at the event underlined that political cohesion, institutional strength and consistency of policies are critical if the country is to break free from cycles of instability and move towards sustainable development.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.