CHINIOT, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 29th Nov, 2025) Federal Minister for the Investment board Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh hailed the PML-N’s strong performance in the recent general elections, noting that the party secured a clear majority even in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa despite stiff competition. Speaking to the press after an open court in Chiniot on Saturday, Sheikh said the PTI’s boycott of the polls was a “big political mistake,” arguing that history shows boycotts only weaken a party’s standing and deprive it of the chance to address public grievances through parliamentary debate.
Qaiser Sheikh emphasized that the PML-N’s majority would remain intact even if all other parties except the PPP merged, and he praised the PPP as an important ally committed to joint efforts for national progress. He added that cordial relations between the two parties in parliament would enable them to confront the country’s challenges through cooperative legislation, including the formulation of a new NFC award designed to strengthen the federation while uplifting provincial performance in health, education and other key sectors.
The minister warned that the nation loses about seven percent of its national income due to fiscal deficits and that provincial performance in critical areas such as health and education remains unsatisfactory, exemplified by a decline in intermediate pass rates in Karachi to just 12 percent.
He criticized the previous PTI government for policies that, in his view, pushed the economy toward default, favored the wealthy with unaccounted billions, and stunted export growth. Sheikh called for increased foreign direct investment, value-added exports, and exploitation of mineral and rare-earth resources to boost the economy.
Sheikh also highlighted the long-standing issue of corruption, noting that it has plagued Pakistan for four decades and requires strict reforms to curb smuggling and maladministration. He pointed to China’s success in lifting 700 million people out of poverty as an example the country should emulate, while stressing that without solving public problems, democratic benefits will not reach citizens. He announced that the recent IMF report would be published to help identify and address economic weaknesses.
Turning to his constituency, Sheikh said he holds open courts every two to three weeks to hear and resolve local issues, and that he does not draw a government salary, instead directing those funds to the flood relief fund. He reiterated that collective effort and unity are essential to steer Pakistan out of its economic crisis, and that his ministry is simplifying regulations, establishing a one-stop facilitation centre in Islamabad, and working to improve the business environment to attract investment and foster prosperity.
