A high-level consultative meeting on the economy, energy, and regional situation was held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr under the chairmanship of President Asif Ali Zardari. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Deputy Prime Minister, the four provincial chief ministers, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Finance Minister Mohammad Aurangzeb, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi attended the session.
During the meeting, the leadership directed that all possible measures be taken to provide relief to the public amid rising inflation. Despite pressures on fuel and gas supply, it was decided to ensure uninterrupted availability of energy resources.
Proposals to increase petroleum prices were rejected. The government also announced austerity measures, including immediate suspension of 60% of government vehicles, to reduce public expenditure.
Officials emphasized that Pakistan’s fuel supply will remain unaffected despite the global crisis. A coordinated national strategy will be implemented to lessen the impact of inflation.
The President encouraged citizens to use public transport and shared mobility options. The meeting also reviewed the potential effects of the current regional situation on Pakistan’s economy and food security. Leaders from the federal government, provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir also participated in the important session.
