Islamabad, Pakistan – Web Desk: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared that “it is not possible for the public to make sacrifices while the elite continues to enjoy privileges,” reaffirming his government’s commitment to austerity, public relief, and economic justice .
The Prime Minister made these remarks during a meeting with women parliamentarians belonging to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) .
Government’s Relief and Austerity Measures
The Prime Minister stated that the government made every possible effort to provide relief to the public in the federal budget, particularly through a historic relief package for middle- and lower-income groups .
“During the recent crisis, austerity began with the cabinet and government institutions,” he said, emphasizing that public sacrifice cannot coexist with elite privilege .
The government allocated Rs128 billion in subsidies and launched a comprehensive austerity campaign to ease public hardships . The Prime Minister thanked the provincial governments for their cooperation in maintaining economic stability and praised the public for their support during difficult times .
Regional Peace and Economic Impact
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude that regional tensions had subsided through successful peace efforts, acknowledging the support of friendly countries .
He specifically recognized the contributions of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and the entire government team for their sincere efforts in establishing peace .
“Lasting peace in the region and the world is essential for achieving economic development in Pakistan and other countries,” he said, adding that the positive economic impact of regional peace would eventually reach the people .
Focus on Key Sectors
The Prime Minister outlined the government’s focus areas for the upcoming fiscal year, including water reservoirs, information technology, agriculture, and minerals sectors, aimed at strengthening the economy .
He emphasized that the government had successfully shielded the public from the effects of global inflation, avoiding both a crisis and long fuel lines through better planning and federal-provincial cooperation .
Women’s Empowerment
The Prime Minister highlighted that the budget includes several measures to empower women and increase their integration into the national mainstream . “Empowering Pakistani women to play a full role in national development is among the government’s top priorities,” he stated .
Parliamentarians’ Appreciation
The women parliamentarians commended the Prime Minister for his efforts in establishing peace at the regional and global levels and appreciated the budget’s focus on women’s empowerment and equal opportunities for education and development . They also presented proposals from their respective constituencies regarding public welfare projects and budget priorities .
The meeting was attended by a large number of PML-N women parliamentarians, along with Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja, and other senior officials .
