Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has described the peace agreement between Iran and the United States, scheduled to be signed on Friday, as a major diplomatic achievement for Pakistan.

Speaking in the National Assembly today, he said that the country's leadership has, through its vision, wisdom, and diplomatic efforts, enhanced Pakistan’s prestige and standing on the international stage. He said the recognition and respect earned by Pakistan through these efforts are unparalleled, describing it as one of the most significant achievements in the nation's 78 year history.

He emphasized that the struggle waged by Pakistan on the diplomatic front was aimed at promoting peace. He recalled that Pakistan had also secured victory in a war fought on the military front almost a year ago. He expressed confidence that Pakistan would also achieve success on the economic front following its successes on the military and diplomatic fronts.

The Defense Minister thanked the United States for ultimately taking a major step toward peace and for recognizing the injustices faced by Iran and indicating in the agreement to address them.  He also congratulated Iranian leadership and people for demonstrating unity in the highly sensitive time.

At the outset, Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also congratulated the entire Pakistani nation on the country's diplomatic achievement in helping mediate peace between Iran and the United States. In this regard, he was appreciative of the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defense Forces Syed Asim Munir, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, National Security Adviser Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik and the entire team of foreign office.

The Iranian Ambassador also witnessed the proceedings of the house.

The house is now continuing discussion on the budget for next financial year.

Participating in the discussion, Sardar Latif Khosa described the budget as anti people, saying it carries no relief for the people.

Ghulam Ali Talpur said that the agriculture sector should be subsidized with withdrawal of sales tax and duties on agri inputs.

Noor Alam Khan welcomed recent diplomatic engagements and appreciated Pakistan’s leadership role in promoting peace and regional stability.

Hafeez-ud-Din said  high energy costs, circular debt and policy inconsistencies continue to pose challenges to industrial growth, urging comprehensive reforms to ensure stability and investor confidence.

Shahram Khan called for stronger implementation of policies to translate economic claims into tangible relief for citizens.

Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol noted that debt servicing and inflation continue to limit development spending, and urged policymakers to prioritise relief for the common man through improved financial management.