Development spending in NA-120 reflects national recovery, says Speaker Ayaz Sadiq

LAHORE: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq on Sunday said Pakistan was emerging from difficult times and moving towards stability and development, highlighting massive public spending in NA-120 as evidence of the country’s improving situation.

Addressing a ceremony in Lakhodair to inaugurate several development projects, he said all schemes proposed for the constituency had been approved by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, reflecting the government’s commitment to improving living conditions for residents.

He said unprecedented funds had been allocated for NA-120, adding that more resources had been directed to the constituency than any other area in Punjab. Work worth Rs770 million was under way in Lakhodair alone, while projects totalling Rs38 billion were being implemented across the constituency.

The speaker said the use of e-tendering had saved Rs200 million, ensuring transparency and efficient utilisation of public money.

Referring to the broader national context, he said Pakistan had faced severe challenges but the situation was now improving. He said the country maintained relations with nations around the world and sought peace rather than conflict.

However, he added that when India initiated aggression, Pakistan responded firmly, which enhanced national pride and improved the country’s international standing. He said Pakistan had exercised restraint after the first attack but delivered a strong response to the second.

The speaker said terrorism imposed on Pakistan would be dealt with decisively and warned that those involved in militant activities would face a strong response. He added that Pakistan had consistently urged Afghanistan to take effective measures to curb terrorism and expressed hope that such commitments would be honoured, emphasising that Pakistan continued to act with caution, responsibility and restraint.

Addressing economic concerns, he said special teams had been constituted to prevent price hikes during Ramzan, noting that traders often increased prices during the holy month. He acknowledged that inflation had reached high levels but said the government was actively working to stabilise prices and provide relief to citizens.