A joint meeting of the parliamentary party of PML-N and the government’s coalition partners was held, where participants expressed confidence in the federal government’s policies amid the situation arising from the Iran-US war.
During the meeting, ministers also assured that petroleum prices would be further reduced once the situation returns to normal.
The meeting, chaired by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, was attended by coalition members; however, PPP members were not present. Key discussions focused on the Iran-US war and its impact on Pakistan’s economic and energy situation.
Ministers brief leadership
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb gave a detailed briefing on the prevailing economic conditions. He highlighted that the global oil crisis intensified after the war involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, affecting economies worldwide.
Aurangzeb noted that the government initially provided a Rs129 billion subsidy to shield the public without increasing prices. After fuel price adjustments, additional subsidies were announced for motorcycles, rickshaws, public transport, and freight vehicles.
He added that provinces are also contributing to subsidizing petroleum products, while the government continues efforts to minimize the financial burden on citizens. The minister also briefed participants on austerity measures and steps to reduce government expenditure.
Petroleum supply, pricing situation
Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik briefed the meeting on the demand, supply, and pricing of petroleum products. He informed participants that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is personally monitoring the situation and that immediate steps have been taken to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply across the country.
During the meeting, leaders of coalition parties actively engaged with the briefing, asking questions from both the finance and petroleum ministers. The interaction reflected concerns within the government ranks over the evolving economic situation.
Decision to take parliament into confidence
Members of the parliamentary party proposed that the National Assembly should be taken into confidence regarding the current challenges and policy measures. It was agreed that the government will formally brief parliament on the situation, ensuring transparency and political consensus.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was also expected to attend the National Assembly session and personally take the House into confidence.
Govt acknowledges tough decisions
Khawaja Asif stated that the purpose of the meeting was to take coalition and parliamentary partners into confidence on the evolving situation. He acknowledged that the global economic crisis is forcing governments to make difficult and unpopular decisions.
He added that while all countries are being affected by the regional conflict, Pakistan is relatively better positioned due to prudent policies of the political and military leadership.
The parliamentary party meeting of coalition partners concluded with a consensus to engage parliament on the crisis and ongoing measures. The move signals the government’s intent to maintain transparency while navigating economic challenges linked to global instability.
