PM Shehbaz addresses a meeting of federal cabinet

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently addressing a meeting of the federal cabinet taking place amid heightened tensions between the Centre and the PTI-led opposition.

At the outset of his address, PM Shehbaz spoke of the recent staff-level agreement reached with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). “It is hoped that we will unlock the $1.2 billion tranche within this year,” he said, recalling a meeting with the IMF’s Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva at the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) last month.

He commended the political and military leadership for “working together day and night” in bringing fiscal discipline to Pakistan.

The premier also recalled his visit to London last month, where he had met with senior executives from leading global financial institutions.

He also spoke of Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts in the international community, taking note of the appreciation Pakistan has received for mediation in the Middle East conflict.

“Pakistan continues to play its role with hard work and sincerity,” he said, particularly lauding the role of the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir.

PM Shehbaz condemned the recent Houthi attack on Saudi Arabia, noting the long-standing fraternal ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

“Our only goal is that peace should be restored in the region,” he said.

“Pakistan expresses solidarity with Saudi Arabia and stands with it. We will not tolerate any aggression against Saudi Arabia,” he said, adding that it was a “red line” for Pakistan.

Shifting his attention to terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, the premier said, “The way common citizens are being martyred, the way police officials and security officials, children and mothers [..] there can be nothing more heart-wrenching.”

At this, he recalled that Pakistan has repeatedly urged neighbouring Afghanistan to rein in the terrorist elements; however, “they still don’t understand it”.

More to follow.

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