Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that it is a fact and a necessity that we had to create the budget in collaboration with the IMF. Speaking at the National Assembly and the Federal Cabinet meeting, he emphasized that working with the IMF on the budget was unavoidable given the current circumstances.
He also elaborated on the objectives of Operation Azm-e-Istihkam, which aims to decisively eliminate the remnants of terrorists, crime-terrorism nexus, and violent extremism in the country. The Federal Cabinet approved the operation and endorsed the decisions of the SIFC Apex Committee. Addressing the National Assembly, the Prime Minister acknowledged the necessity of working with the IMF to draft the budget and expressed hope for positive news following the IMF’s response.
Responding to points raised by Zain Qureshi of the Sunni Ittehad Council regarding South Punjab, the Prime Minister highlighted that his government allocated a budget exceeding the population proportion of South Punjab. He mentioned that a committee, headed by the Finance Minister, has been formed for downsizing and rightsizing, and its concrete results will be presented to the assembly within a month and a half. The Prime Minister also detailed various measures taken for the development of South Punjab, including increased quotas for laptops, employment, and educational scholarships.
During the cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister. It was clarified that Operation Azm-e-Istihkam would be an intelligence-based operation with no mass displacement. This operation aims to continue the National Action Plan without causing any inconvenience. The public, focusing solely on targeting disruptive elements.
PM Shehbaz Sharif: No New Solar Panel Duties, Economic Stability Focus
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is confident that the government will not impose new duties on solar panels. Ensuring public access to renewable electricity. He emphasised the authorities’s dedication to economic balance and the advertising of small and medium-sized enterprises to boost exports. The government prioritizes the economic protection of the common man and equitable development opportunities.
The Federal Cabinet approved the export of surplus sugar and granted permission for the transit of a container of truck parts from Karachi to Kabul as a one-time humanitarian gesture. The cabinet also approved various other measures. Including the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs. The extension of the implementation committee for the estate of the late Nawab of Bahawalpur.
Regarding the privatization of state institutions, particularly PIA. The cabinet was informed about the ongoing process. With companies showing interest in visiting PIA sites ahead of the bidding scheduled for the first week of August. The Prime Minister instructed officials to expedite the privatization process with a focus on transparency.
Additionally, the cabinet approved the presentation of the National Economic Council’s annual report for the financial year 2022-2023 to Parliament and ratified decisions from recent ECC and CCLC meetings. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of monitoring sugar prices and preventing any increase. Forming a committee to oversee the matter.
Lastly, the Prime Minister met with a delegation of young entrepreneurs from various sectors. Reiterating the government’s commitment to supporting the business community. He instructed the formation of a Youth Entrepreneur Advisory Committee. Similar to the Economic Advisory Committee, to enhance Pakistani exports globally.
