PM says Rs 100 billion cut from Public Sector Development Program and saved resources redirected towards public aid
ISLAMABAD:
Amid rising regional tensions and mounting economic pressures, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called for national unity, political stability and shared sacrifice, urging the country’s elite to step forward as Pakistan grapples with the fallout of the ongoing conflict in the region.
Addressing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said the prevailing war situation has posed serious economic challenges for Pakistan, making it imperative for all segments of society to act collectively to overcome the crisis.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal ministers, chief ministers of the four provinces and representatives of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, along with Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
The prime minister said Pakistan is actively making diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire, noting that Dar has engaged with foreign ministers of several countries and has paid a major visit to China as part of these efforts.
He added that the army chief also plays a key role and expressed hope that positive developments will take place soon.
Highlighting the economic strain, Shehbaz said the government has already borne a financial burden of Rs 129 billion, while increases in oil prices have aggravated public hardships.
He noted that austerity measures have been introduced, including cabinet members giving up two months’ salary, reducing fuel consumption by 50% and reducing the use of official vehicles by 60%.
He further said that Rs 100 billion has been cut from the Public Sector Development Program (PSDP), and the saved resources have been redirected towards public relief initiatives.
He urged provincial governments to stop low-priority projects and join a nationwide austerity campaign.
Emphasizing the importance of sustaining key sectors, the Prime Minister said support for agriculture and public and freight transport is essential to ensure that wheat harvesting and other agricultural activities continue uninterrupted and to protect the public from inflationary pressures.
Appreciating the cooperation of President Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and provincial leaders, he said the prevailing national unity demonstrates Pakistan’s ability to face challenges collectively.
He expressed confidence that peace would soon prevail in the region and Pakistan would be successful in its economic and diplomatic endeavours.
