In a statement, he said that balloting in 53 districts across the country were held in a peaceful manner in line with the Code of Conduct set by the Election Commission.
He also appreciated the role of law-enforcement agencies in ensuring a transparent and peaceful polling in these districts. Balloting for the remaining districts would be held in second phase on August 25.
The prime minister said local bodies are the base on which democracy rests, adding that the people of Pakistan elected their representatives in a free environment and they all should be proud of it.
Shaukat said the present elections were part of the process initiated by President General Pervez Musharraf to strengthen democracy and empower the common people at the grassroots level. He said women and minorities, for whom special seats have been allocated, also elected their representatives.
"Every voter was given the opportunity to elect their representative, winning or losing is part of elections and it has always been our desire that people should elect those people who could serve the country selflessly and improve country's image," he added.
He said he was very satisfied and pleased with the reports that elections were held in a peaceful manner and the process went along smoothly.
He said the administration, law-enforcement agencies and others associated with the process performed their duties diligently.
Holding of a peaceful, free and transparent elections will contribute to strengthening the democratic process and send a message to the world that Pakistan has a vibrant democracy where people are free to express their will, he added.
The prime minister said women in Pakistan have more representation in all tiers of governance than in many developed countries.
"A society cannot progress without giving due rights to the women, who, he added, were also serving in Pakistan Air Force, PIA and in every economic field.
He said holding of second phase of district government elections on August 25 would take forward the democratic process in the country.
"This is yet another step in our democratic journey and will contribute to further cementing the process and will strengthen the local government system," he added. The prime minister said we desire peace in the country and are against extremism.
He said Pakistan was playing an important role in maintaining world peace, adding that the government was trying to project the country as a peaceful nation, which was working hard for a better future. He said people of Pakistan were second to none and full of talent.
"We have a highly talented human capital and it had always been a desire of the government to create an environment in which they can fully utilise their potential for improving country's image as a moderate entity," he added.
Shaukat said we take pride in being an Islamic country and our religion teaches us to promote brotherhood, tolerance and a peaceful society.
This, he added, would benefit our country, the entire world and our present and future generations. He said the Chief Election Commissioner himself visited many places and the government had also invited foreign observers to see for themselves that elections in Pakistan were held in a free, fair and transparent manner.
The prime minister said action would be taken as per the law, if there were any complaints. He said those who face defeat should accept the verdict of the people and those winning the polls should fulfil their obligations towards the people.