LAHORE: Nawaz Sharif, the former Prime Minister, addressed officials of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, highlighting the dire state of Pakistan's economy and currency.

He stressed the responsibility to alleviate poverty and address price hikes while underscoring the citizens' rights to education, healthcare, and development, which he deemed the state's duty to provide.

Sharif claimed that between 2013 and 2017, Pakistan became the 24th largest global economy, maintaining the US dollar at Rs 104 for four years. He lamented the present situation, citing a desperate need for one billion dollars, attributing it to self-inflicted harm caused by past decisions.

Highlighting the spike in the policy rate to 22 percent from 6.25 during their tenure, he questioned the feasibility of business operations at such a rate. He admitted to past excesses within the Parliament and with former prime ministers, acknowledging the adverse effects on the rupee, economy, and systems.

He emphasized the significant rise in electricity bills from Rs 1,000 to 15,000 and the substantial inflation affecting all aspects, leading to prices skyrocketing by five-fold.