Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has put a strong emphasis on ensuring that essential food items are available to the people at affordable prices, especially during the holy month of Ramazan. During a recent meeting at the PM House, he directed relevant authorities to devise a comprehensive strategy that would guarantee the availability of food items at reasonable prices. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of collaboration between federal and provincial governments to make sure that edible goods are accessible to the common man without burdening their pockets.
In his opening remarks at the cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the government’s relentless efforts to foster sustainable economic growth by boosting productivity and industrial development. He shared insights from his recent meeting with the Managing Director of the IMF in Dubai, where Pakistan’s efforts in implementing the IMF program and achieving economic milestones were lauded. The Prime Minister also expressed his deep regret over the tragic Libya Boat incident, urging authorities to take necessary actions to prevent such calamities from recurring.
Appointments and Policy Approvals
The cabinet, based on the recommendation of the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training, approved the appointment of Dr. Hassan Al-Amin as the Director of the National Institute of Pakistan Studies at Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, ensuring a merit-based and transparent selection process. Additionally, Tahira Raza was appointed as a non-executive member of the State Bank of Pakistan for a five-year term, following approval from the Ministry of Finance. The cabinet also gave the green light to the strategy of interfaith harmony policy and religious tolerance, emphasizing dialogues, conferences, public awareness campaigns, and an action plan to safeguard the rights of religious minorities and promote religious tolerance in the country.
International Agreements and Economic Policies
Furthermore, the cabinet, based on the recommendation of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, approved the appointment of female members Laila Ilyas Kalpana and Satwant Kaur to the Evacuee Trust Property Board. On the recommendation of the Revenue Division, the cabinet also approved the signing of an initial draft of the convention between Pakistan and Iraq to eliminate double taxation on income tax and capital, and prevent tax evasion and non-compliance. The decisions taken during the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) meeting held on February 3, 2025, were also ratified by the federal cabinet.
As the country gears up for the month of Ramazan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directives to control food prices and ensure affordability reflect the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens. By prioritizing economic growth, fostering interfaith harmony, and making strategic appointments, the cabinet aims to create a conducive environment for sustainable development and inclusivity in Pakistan.
