Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran has significantly affected Pakistan’s economic progress over the past two years. Addressing a Cabinet meeting in Islamabad, Sharif highlighted the rising financial strain caused by increased energy costs, reported PTI.

He stated that Pakistan’s oil import bill has surged sharply - from around USD 300 million before the conflict to nearly USD 800 million - putting additional pressure on the country’s economy.