Lahore (TDI): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has praised US President Donald Trump’s efforts to de-escalate tensions between Pakistan and India, describing it as a significant diplomatic success for the country.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the relaunch of the upgraded Pak Business Express and improved passenger facilities at the Lahore railway station on Tuesday, the prime minister said, “President Trump said he helped stop a war between Pakistan and India. There’s no greater diplomatic achievement than that.”
He also noted that Pakistan’s relations with the United States were moving in a positive direction.
Referring to ties with China, PM Shehbaz confirmed that work on the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was progressing, with both countries maintaining close coordination.
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Turning to domestic matters, the premier acknowledged the decline of Pakistan Railways from its former glory. “It used to be among the best in the region,” he said, adding that efforts were now underway to restore its performance.
He applauded Hanif Abbasi for taking charge of much-needed reforms in Pakistan Railways. Among the improvements the premier pointed out were the availability of Wi-Fi for passengers, installation of escalators, cleaner restrooms, improved dining areas, and the phasing out of outdated methods for buying and checking tickets.
He further acknowledged recent enhancements in station cleanliness and the addition of ATM facilities for passenger convenience.
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Addressing the gathering, Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi revealed that the department had brought in Rs93 billion in revenue during the 2024-25 financial year.
He noted that the introduction of new coaches, expansion of online booking services, and deeper digitization of operations were all part of a broader upgrade.
Abbasi also acknowledged the assistance provided by provincial governments in improving infrastructure across the network.
Farkhund Yousafzai is an Associate Editor at The Diplomatic Insight.
