Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that consultations with the provinces on the federal budget have been ongoing for several weeks, stressing that the process reflects a collective effort to steer the country’s economy in the best national interest.
Speaking after the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, the prime minister expressed gratitude to all provincial chief ministers for their cooperation in budget discussions. “I am thankful to the chief ministers for their consultation and support in the budget process,” he said, adding that further discussions were held on generating additional fiscal space.
He emphasised that all decisions had been taken through teamwork and in line with Pakistan’s broader economic priorities. “Employment generation, boosting exports, improving the economy and increasing productivity are our shared responsibilities,” he said.
The prime minister noted that regional instability had pushed global oil prices sharply upward, placing additional pressure on economies worldwide. Despite these challenges, he said Pakistan’s macroeconomic indicators had stabilised, with further reforms underway to strengthen the economy.
Economic stability and development focus
PM Shehbaz said the government remained focused on strengthening key sectors including industry and agriculture, while also prioritising export growth as a driver of long-term stability. He reiterated that economic progress required sustained investment in productive capacity and structural reforms.
He also highlighted global energy pressures, noting that in several countries people were already facing queues at petrol stations due to supply constraints and rising prices.
Security sacrifices and national unity
Paying tribute to security forces, the prime minister lauded their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. “We are confident that with unity and consensus, we will eliminate the scourge of terrorism,” he said.
He added that national defence required adequate resources and sustained attention, particularly in a challenging regional environment.
The NEC meeting brought together federal and provincial leaders to finalise key economic decisions for the upcoming fiscal year, with discussions focusing on budgetary allocations, development priorities and macroeconomic targets.
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