Shehbaz Sharif has announced that petrol and diesel prices will remain unchanged, rejecting a proposal for a significant increase. Addressing the nation he said he was advised to raise petrol prices by Rs95 per litre and diesel by Rs203, but he turned down the recommendation in the public interest.

The prime minister stated that the federal government has decided to bear an additional burden of Rs56 billion this week to shield citizens from rising fuel costs. He claimed that based on global rates, petrol should have reached Rs544 per litre but is being provided at Rs322, while diesel, which should cost Rs790 per litre is available at Rs335.

Sharif emphasized that protecting citizens from inflation remains his top priority, noting that global fuel prices have nearly doubled. He added that the government is actively working on the diplomatic front to promote regional peace.

He highlighted ongoing engagements with Iran and Gulf nations, describing these efforts as both strategic and moral. He also praised Ishaq Dar and Asim Munir for their roles in supporting Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives.