Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a federal cabinet meeting addressing various national and international issues. However, the cabinet postponed decisions on banning the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and applying Article 6 against three of its leaders, choosing to consult coalition partners, notably the Pakistan People’s Party, first.
The Prime Minister condemned the group responsible for the May 9, 2023, unrest and criticized ongoing propaganda against the country’s military and its leaders. He emphasized the need for national unity to safeguard Pakistan’s interests and vowed to take necessary actions to protect the nation.
Read more: US Expresses Concern About Pakistan Govt’s Decision to Ban PTI
No visa required for investors
The cabinet, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved visa-free entry for investors, entrepreneurs, and residents from 126 countries. This move is intended to boost foreign investment and economic growth by eliminating visa fees for these visitors. Sharif emphasized that this initiative would attract tourists and businesspeople, significantly enhancing economic activity in Pakistan.
SECP Act Special Courts
Additionally, the cabinet sanctioned the creation of special courts under the SECP Act of 1997 to streamline legal processes related to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan. The cabinet also approved a memorandum of understanding with Denmark to strengthen bilateral relations, increased the number of members on the Privatization Commission Board, and appointed a new chairman for the Evacuee Trust Property Board. They reviewed a report on financial policy implementation for the fiscal years 2012 and 2023.
Security Concerns
Prime Minister Sharif voiced serious concerns about rising terrorist activities, especially in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He condemned the recent martyrdom of eight soldiers and police officers, attributing the assaults to a “coordinated conspiracy against Pakistan.” Sharif accused the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan of targeting innocent civilians and disrupting peace, but assured that the government is working towards peaceful resolution and protection of its citizens. He emphasized the commitment to peace, development, and regional prosperity while also noting the role of neighboring countries in the current wave of terrorism.
International Relations
The cabinet discussed recent attacks on Pakistani embassies in Germany and London, which Prime Minister Sharif described as “regrettable.” He assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken prompt action and stressed the government’s responsibility to safeguard its embassies abroad.
Economic and Social Initiatives
Prime Minister Sharif addressed the recent staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), acknowledging the challenges faced during negotiations. He mentioned that the IMF Board of Governors’ approval is pending and reiterated the government’s efforts to improve Pakistan’s economic situation amidst severe economic challenges for its citizens.
