India, Jan. 31 -- Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has acknowledged that the country feels "ashamed" when its top leadership has to travel abroad seeking financial assistance, underscoring the gravity of the nation's economic crisis.

Addressing an event recently, Sharif said it was embarrassing for him and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir to approach foreign governments for loans and aid.

Highlighting the urgent need for economic reform, the prime minister stressed that Pakistan must chart an alternative economic strategy to reduce dependence on external borrowing.

Sharif described China as a "time-tested" friend and acknowledged the continued support of key allies.

"China is the most time-tested friend of Pakistan. Saudi Ara...