On Tuesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif presided over a federal cabinet session focusing on critical topics such as energy reforms, economic stability, and the evacuation of Pakistani citizens from Syria.
The cabinet approved adjustments to tariffs for eight independent power producers (IPPs) based on task force recommendations.
This measure is projected to save the national treasury around Rs200 billion. The cancellation of agreements with five IPPs had already been sanctioned earlier, marking a step forward in energy reforms.
Discussing the situation in Syria, the prime minister stated that the conditions had shifted significantly in recent days. Over 550 Pakistani nationals, including 250 pilgrims, are awaiting evacuation.
PM Shehbaz assured the cabinet that efforts to bring them home are underway. Coordination with Pakistani ambassadors in Syria and Lebanon is ongoing to facilitate the return process, with chartered flights via Beirut being a likely route, pending Lebanon’s approval.
“I spoke with the Lebanese prime minister, who pledged to assist with the evacuation of Pakistani citizens. Directions have already been issued in this regard,” PM Shehbaz shared.
In other updates, the prime minister noted a 3.57% decline in weekly inflation, emphasizing the importance of political stability for economic growth.
He condemned recent incidents of vandalism in Islamabad, declaring that those responsible for sabotage would face strict action, but cautioned against implicating innocent citizens.
Addressing international relations, PM Shehbaz highlighted an invitation from Azerbaijan’s ambassador for a state visit in February.
He noted that $2 billion worth of investment opportunities are expected to be finalized ahead of this visit.
Concluding the meeting, the prime minister underscored the government’s focus on ensuring stability, stating that economic recovery and political harmony are vital for Pakistan’s progress.
