President Asif Ali Zardari has urged the federal government to ensure that the upcoming budget balances economic growth with public welfare and the protection of provincial rights.
The remarks were made during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where both leaders discussed a range of national issues, including the economy, security, and regional developments.
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah.
According to official sources, discussions focused on the country’s economic situation, the upcoming federal budget, national security matters, law and order, recent elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, and developments in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
President Zardari emphasized the need for a budget that supports economic development while safeguarding provincial autonomy and delivering meaningful relief to citizens. He stressed that economic planning should promote inclusive growth and improve public welfare across the country.
During the meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also briefed the President on his recent visit to Iran and ongoing diplomatic engagements in the region.
Several senior political leaders also attended the session, including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Raja Faisal Rathore, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Senator Sherry Rehman, MNA Syed Naveed Qamar, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, and Senator Ahad Cheema.
The consultation comes ahead of the federal budget announcement, as policymakers continue discussions on economic priorities, development spending, and measures aimed at supporting growth while addressing public concerns.
