The year 2025 has finally ended. On the last day of 2025, I have written my last column of the year about how 25 years ago we were all excited at the beginning of a new century and now a quarter of the 21st century has passed quickly.
Today, on the first morning of the New Year 2026, Geo News’ popular TV program ‘Geo Pakistan’ is being broadcast on the TV screen in front of me, in which prominent renowned journalist Hamid Mir and other guests are discussing the possible challenges Pakistan may have to face in the New Year.
Undoubtedly, for Pakistan, 2025 was a year of both challenges and achievements. The most significant event was the May border clashes, where Pakistan’s armed forces demonstrated extraordinary bravery and strategic skill. The professional skill and courage with which Pakistani pilots downed Rafale fighter jets surprised global defense analysts. Yet one fact became undeniable: Pakistan’s defence is in capable and determined hands.
Domestically, in the year 2025, the PPP, under the dynamic leadership of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, reaffirmed its historical role by prioritising democratic continuity, constitutional supremacy, and politics of reconciliation. By choosing stability over confrontation, the party projected itself as a responsible and forward-looking political force.
Progress towards the establishment of constitutional courts marked the fulfillment of a long-standing commitment to strengthening judicial independence. Bilawal also played a key role in achieving significant diplomatic achievements for Pakistan.
As Pakistan enters 2026, it stands at a critical crossroads where persistent challenges coexist with potential opportunities. In my view, losses are not caused only by wars or crises; sometimes hesitation, delay and indecision also exact a heavy price from nations.
On the diplomatic front, foreign policy in the new year will demand careful balancing. Maintaining strong ties with China, managing relations with the US, engaging Gulf partners and navigating tensions with India will require pragmatic and proactive diplomacy. Shifting global power alignments and conflicts in the Middle East will add further complexity. Such emerging developments call for great caution, wisdom, and responsibility in shaping our foreign policy in the new year.
Similarly, militancy, border management issues and unrest in certain regions will require our constant attention. Rapid developments in neighboring countries and evolving regional dynamics may further complicate internal security situations.
In my view, political stability will be another major challenge. In 2026, national progress will depend heavily on political maturity, dialogue and respect for constitutional processes. Prolonged political confrontation could undermine both economic confidence and foreign relations.
The most pressing issue remains economic stability. High public debt, limited foreign exchange reserves, renewal of GSP plus and continued dependence on international lenders – particularly the IMF – will test the government’s ability to manage inflation, stabilize the currency and stimulate export-led growth. Without structural reforms in taxation, energy and state-owned enterprises, economic recovery may remain fragile.
Another growing concern, in my view, is climate change. Extreme weather events, water scarcity, and agricultural vulnerability pose serious risks to food security and livelihoods. Effective climate adaptation policies and disaster preparedness will be essential.
Finally, youth unemployment and governance remain critical challenges. With a large young population, Pakistan must invest in education, skills development, artificial intelligence and digital innovation. At the same time, good governance, strengthening rule of law, protection of human rights and curbing corruption are vital to restoring public trust.
Now the year 2025 has passed but our national progress in the New Year will be heavily shaped by our ability to turn challenges into opportunities through unity, reform, and foresight. With responsible leadership and collective wisdom, we can move our beloved country toward stability, resilience and sustainable growth.
Let’s pray to God Almighty for peace, stability, and prosperity in our beloved homeland.
May Pakistan continue to grow stronger, united in purpose and committed to the welfare of all people.
The writer is a member of the National Assembly and patron-in-chief of the Pakistan Hindu Council. He tweets/posts @RVankwani
