Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a federal cabinet meeting on Tuesday, where a nine-point agenda was reviewed, covering key domestic, economic, and international matters.
According to a statement issued after the meeting, the PM emphasized that providing food items at reasonable prices, particularly during Ramazan, is the government’s top priority. He directed authorities to formulate a strategy to ensure the common man has access to essential goods at fair rates. He also urged federal and provincial governments to collaborate in achieving this objective.
The cabinet approved the Interfaith Harmony Policy and a Religious Tolerance Strategy, aimed at fostering inclusivity and social cohesion.
PM Shehbaz Sharif briefed cabinet members on his recent visit to the UAE and shared details about the upcoming visit of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Pakistan. The cabinet discussed a Basic Ordering Agreement related to the repair and maintenance of helicopters.
The appointment of two directors at the National Institute of Pakistan Studies, Quaid-e-Azam University, was reviewed. The meeting considered the appointment of a non-executive director to the Board of Directors of the State Bank of Pakistan, as well as the appointment of a chairperson for the Commission on the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals.
It also reviewed military intelligence and internal security duty allowances for security forces in Gilgit-Baltistan. A decision was set to be taken regarding increasing women’s representation on the Evacuee Trust Property Board. The cabinet also reviewed the preliminary draft agreement for the elimination of double taxation with Iraq.
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The meeting included the approval of various decisions made by the Cabinet’s Economic Coordination Committee (ECC).
PM’s UAE visit and bilateral talks
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif briefed the cabinet on his successful visit to the UAE, where he met President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations, investment opportunities, and economic collaboration.
Army chief General Asim Munir was also present during the meeting.
During the World Governments Summit in Dubai, PM Shehbaz Sharif said he also held meetings with the leaders of Sri Lanka, Kuwait, and Bosnia. He described Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe as a young and dynamic leader and recalled Sri Lanka’s past support in helping Pakistan fight the dengue epidemic. "The people of Pakistan still remember Sri Lanka's help," he remarked.
PM Shehbaz also told the meeting that he engaged with Pakistani investors in Dubai, who provided valuable insights and urged the government to improve the ease of doing business and create a more favourable investment climate.
A significant meeting was also held with DP World, a leading global logistics company, which expressed readiness to invest in Pakistan’s PIPRI program in Karachi, as well as increase investment in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s stand on Palestine and Saudi Arabia
During his speech at the World Governments Summit, PM Shehbaz Sharif said he strongly condemned Israel’s aggression in Gaza, highlighting that over 50,000 Palestinians have been martyred in what he described as the worst example of genocide in modern history. He called for unified efforts to support Palestinian rehabilitation and peace.
The PM also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, stating that Pakistan will never allow any threats to Saudi Arabia. He emphasized the deep brotherly ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, which he described as a trusted partner.
Upcoming Visit of Turkish President Erdogan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would be arriving in Pakistan tonight for high-level meetings and bilateral agreements. He hailed Erdogan as a great leader and a longstanding friend of Pakistan. The visit is expected to strengthen economic and defence cooperation between the two nations, with MoUs and agreements set to be signed.
"We should take full advantage of this opportunity. We should further strengthen brotherly relations with Turkiye," he observed.
Economic stability and IMF talks
The PM highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy, crediting continuous reforms for achieving macroeconomic stability. He emphasized that lowering energy costs, boosting industrial production, and increasing exports are the key factors for economic growth.
He also discussed his recent meeting with the IMF managing director, where he urged the IMF to propose a structured economic plan. "The IMF praised Pakistan in a very good way. She also appreciated the ministers," he told the meeting, adding that reducing duty structure and energy costs would increase employment and growth.
"The IMF MD said, 'Come with a plan, I'm ready," he told the participants. The PM instructed Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to coordinate with provincial governments to finalise a joint economic strategy in line with IMF recommendations.
Record remittances and Libya tragedy
The prime minister highlighted a record-breaking increase in remittances, which crossed the $3 billion mark in January, indicating growing confidence among overseas Pakistanis. He said Pakistan was determined to provide facilities to expatriates.
He also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Pakistani lives in a recent ship accident in Libya, vowing to crack down on human trafficking networks responsible for such tragedies. He instructed the Ministry of Interior and law enforcement agencies to take strict action against those involved in this “black business.”
