New York: Deputy Prime Minister and senior PML-N leader Ishaq Dar addressed a gathering of the Pakistani community in New York, emphasizing the government’s role in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy and steering the country away from default.

Speaking to a packed hall, Dar reassured overseas Pakistanis of their pivotal role in the country’s development, calling them “an asset to the nation.” He credited the current government’s economic policies for a significant turnaround in key indicators, claiming, “We saved the country from default.”

Dar stated that over the past three years, Pakistan’s economy had shown measurable improvement, including an uptick in GDP growth. “All international financial institutions acknowledge Pakistan’s economic progress,” he added.

Reflecting on the political and economic turbulence of recent years, the Deputy Prime Minister sharply criticized the previous PTI-led government. “The world’s fourth-largest economy declined during PTI’s four-year tenure,” he said. “If PTI’s rule had continued for six more months, Pakistan would have defaulted.”

He further outlined the timeline of recent political changes, noting the success of the no-confidence motion that ousted the PTI government and brought the PDM coalition to power for 16 months. “During the PDM era, we saved the country from bankruptcy,” Dar asserted, adding that the coalition’s term ended on August 9, paving the way for a caretaker setup and fresh elections.

Dar praised Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s leadership, highlighting his re-election as head of a new coalition government. “By the grace of Allah, the country’s foreign exchange reserves are increasing,” he said, expressing optimism for the future.

The Deputy Prime Minister closed his address by reaffirming his ongoing commitment to Pakistan’s economic stability. “Whenever economic issues arise, I am called upon,” he remarked, underscoring his role in the country’s financial management.