Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, while giving a clarification over a disruption during a live television programme, termed the matter as domestic in nature.
Speaking on Samaa TV programme 'Mere Sawal with Absar Alam', the federal minister said that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) attempted to involve state institutions in the matter and carried out character assassination in a crude manner. He termed this conduct condemnable and regrettable.
Iqbal said that Pakistan’s standing at the diplomatic level has improved. He said goodwill from the Trump administration increased, a defence agreement was signed with Saudi Arabia, and the President of the United Arab Emirates paid an official visit for the first time. He said these were major developments.
He said the UAE president’s visit would have positive effects. After many years, the United Arab Emirates president visited Pakistan, with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan making his first official visit. He said relations between Pakistan and the UAE would move from cooperation to deep friendship.
Iqbal said that the world recognises Pakistan’s defence industry following Marka-e-Haq. He said there is international demand for Pakistani defence products, including the sale of JF-17 Thunder aircraft. He added that Pakistan has established its defence capability, the armed forces won Marka-e-Haq, and now the country must win the battle for the economy.
The federal minister said the focus must remain on reforms until 2027, while the framework for high growth extends to 2032. He said the purpose of the IMF programme is macroeconomic stability, and that after the visit, Pakistan–UAE relations would strengthen further, with progress expected across all sectors.
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