Economic leaders are praised by the prime minister for their efforts
Scoop: PM Shehbaz applauds his economic squad, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb takes the spotlight
In a fast-paced turn of events, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif couldn't help but heap praise on his economic squad during a federal cabinet meeting — with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb stealing the show as the main act. The Budget for 2025-26 spectacularly sailed through the National Assembly, garnering approval just hours after its presentation.
The political scene buzzed as PM Shehbaz extolled the "unrivaled dedication" of his economic crew, thanking coalition allies, including PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari, for supporting this daring economic venture. Praise was also bestowed upon the deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ishaq Dar.
"With this budget, the economy will be further fortified in the new fiscal year," PM Shehbaz declared, with a touch of exuberance.
Shifting gears to geopolitical matters, the PM applauded the fragile ceasefire between Iran and Israel, describing it as a "vital pause button" poised to halt the region's impending calamity. Iran, the PM said, "refused to buckle under pressure" and "stood tall under fire."
PM Shehbaz lauded Pakistan's backing of regional peace efforts, applauding the recent ceasefire between Iran and Israel. He emphasized the influential role of countries like Saudi Arabia and Qatar in facilitating the ceasefire, acknowledging a detailed conversation he had with Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman and Iranian President President Trump's admiration for Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir during a luncheon.
Domestically, the PM directed authorities to maintain strict law and order during Muharram processions across the nation, instructing Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to collaborate with provincial governments, authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir to ensure peace and security throughout the month. The PM paid tribute to security forces battling terrorism, expressing confidence that Pakistan would ultimately emerge victorious from the war against extremism.
In a poignant moment during the cabinet meeting, authorities offered Fateha for Major Moeez Abbas Shah, who was martyred during an operation against terrorists in South Waziristan.
A Praiseworthy Economic Team
According to recent reports, the federal budget of fiscal year 2025-26 boasts an approximate outlay of Rs17.57 to Rs17.6 trillion. The budget's passing had been preceded by a clause-by-clause reading and adoption of amendments, despite opposition protests. The budget focuses on economic stability, growth, and enhancing domestic resource mobilization.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb led the budget presentation, showcasing the government's economic achievements and outlining future strategic targets. The prime minister recognized the economic team's relentless efforts, acknowledging that they played a crucial role in achieving consensus and motorizing the budget amid legislative hurdles.
The coalition, including the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), extended their support, ensuring the budget's smooth passage through the National Assembly with majority votes. Key aspects of the budget include a significant increase in the FBR tax collection target, major reforms, and a focus on projected growth and inflation rates.
Sources:[1] Business Recorder, 2025[2] Enrichment data, 2025
- The applause for the economic team extended beyond the federal cabinet, with credit given to Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb for his leadership in presenting the budget for 2025-26.
- Amidst global finance news, Pakistan's economic squad has earned general-news headlines for their exceptional work in fortifying the economy, a feat recognized even in war-and-conflict discussions.
- Prime Minister Shehbaz's praise for his economic team is not limited to domestic politics; political leaders worldwide, including President Asif Ali Zardari, have lauded their achievements in financing and financial matters.
- In the midst of Iran-Israel tensions and regional conflicts, PM Shehbaz's IRAs (Iran Relief Act) budget plans are aimed at promoting economic growth and stability, demonstrating a dedication to finance and business that extends beyond the scope of national politics.
