Trump’s remarks on stopping Pakistan-India war reopen old wounds for Modi: PM Shehbaz

LAHORE:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday that every time US President Donald Trump talks about stopping the Pakistan-India war, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘wounds are reopened’.

“US President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated that we stopped the war. When the US president says that we stopped the Pakistan-India war, Modi’s wounds are reopened,” he said while inaugrating Pak Business Express and newly upgraded passenger facilities at the Lahore Railway Station.

During his address, PM Shehbaz also paid tribute to Pakistan’s Armed Forces for their resilience in the four-day conflict with India, which he described as “short but highly dangerous.” He praised the military’s technical superiority, the Air Force’s internal innovations, and the Army’s use of Al Fatah missiles.

“India believed Pakistan could only rely on nuclear deterrence, but conventional warfare supremacy has shattered that myth,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to the nation’s security. He added that our nuclear assets are guarantors of national security, and the enemy does not dare to look at us with an evil eye.

Speaking during the ceremony, PM Shehbaz expressed satisfaction with the station’s visible transformation. “From a warm welcome to well-mannered receptionists, renovated CIP lounges, upgraded passenger waiting rooms, and a fully refurbished train with modern European-style dining and sleeper berths, the change is truly gratifying,” he said.

The PM hailed the digitisation of the ticketing system, the introduction of Wi-Fi facilities, and the outsourcing of services to improve efficiency and professionalism. “These services are for the common masses, not just a privileged class. This is a step towards turning railways into a best-in-class transportation system for both passengers and cargo freight,” he added.

PM Shehbaz commended the Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi, the Railways secretary, and chairman for their efforts, while also acknowledging the previous contributions of former minister Saad Rafique, highlighting his “16 months of dedicated service” to the Railways department.

He further stressed the need for punctuality and transparent outsourcing of railway land and services, aiming to turn these assets into profitable ventures for the nation. He also underscored the importance of continuing the transformation of Pakistan Railways across the country, from Peshawar to Karachi, Rohri, and Quetta.

“The Almighty guides and supports every sincere effort. This is just the first step; we must struggle with dedication and transparency to serve the people of Pakistan,” PM Shehbaz remarked.

The PM concluded the ceremony with a pledge to transform Pakistan Railways into a modern, transparent, and people-centric institution. “Together we can make Railways a true engine of progress for Pakistan,” he stated.

Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi thanked the PM for his vision and leadership. He credited him for supporting the digitisation, outsourcing of services, and the introduction of a cashless payment system at railway stations.

He also revealed that the Railways had earned Rs93 billion, installed escalators for differently-abled passengers, and improved cleanliness and punctuality across stations.

The newly launched Pak Business Express will travel between Lahore and Karachi in 18 hours and 30 minutes, with an economy-class fare of Rs 5,100.