Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday told the federal cabinet that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced to extend the $2 billion debt that was due to be paid back by Pakistan this month.
In his televised opening remarks chairing the federal cabinet meeting, the premier apprised the members of his “positive and constructive” meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Rahim Yar Khan in which they discussed the ways to further strengthen bilateral ties and investment cooperation.
The UAE president emphasized the need for swift action on investment projects and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s growth.
PM Shehbaz also expressed his confidence that Pakistan’s economy is stabilizing, stressing that the country’s revival will require immense sacrifice and hard work.
He acknowledged the ongoing efforts to lower electricity costs, calling it crucial for boosting trade and exports.
A detailed discussion is planned for later this week to explore ways to make energy more affordable. Additionally, the prime minister emphasized the role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the national economy, with a meeting set for January 15 to discuss further progress in the sector.
The government is also working to increase textile exports, viewing them as key to Pakistan’s economic recovery.
During his remarks, the prime minister mentioned that Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will visit Islamabad later this month when the two sides will discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in Halal meat and rice exports and the import of edible oil.
PM Shehbaz also condemned a recent attack in Lower Kurram, where gunfire targeted a convoy and injured several people, including the deputy commissioner.
He called this incident a deliberate attempt to undermine peace agreements in the region.
The prime minister reiterated the government’s firm stance against human smuggling, a major issue affecting Pakistan, which has led to countless deaths and brought shame to the country.
Several key decisions were approved by the federal cabinet during the meeting. The cabinet gave its approval for the Federal Board of Revenue's (FBR) infrastructure to be classified as critical under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act to ensure better protection against cyberattacks.
The government also extended the temporary permits for Fly Dubai’s flights between Lahore, Islamabad, and Dubai from January 4 to February 3, 2025.
On the economic front, the prime minister instructed that 60% of all public sector imports and exports should be routed through Gwadar Port starting March 2024.
This move is intended to bolster the region's role as a major trade hub. The cabinet also reviewed the e-Office system, which aims to make communication across federal ministries paperless by January 1, 2025.
This will not only streamline administrative processes but also save substantial costs on stationery and fuel.
In education, the cabinet authorized the purchase of refurbished Chromebooks for schools and colleges, with a condition for a third-party audit to ensure transparency in the process.
The cabinet also approved a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Shandong Ruyi Group of China for the development of textile parks in Pakistan, and another MoU between Pakistan’s Foreign Service Academy and the Diplomatic Academy of Serbia to enhance diplomatic training exchanges.
The cabinet also endorsed recommendations related to private Hajj operators. The current 46 operators will manage the arrangements for the 2025 Hajj season, and the government plans to revise its policy for future years.
In terms of legislative matters, the cabinet validated the decisions made by the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases during their recent meetings.
These steps reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure better governance and economic management, in line with its broader vision for a more prosperous Pakistan.
Through these initiatives, PM Shehbaz underscored the government’s commitment to addressing economic challenges, fostering international partnerships, and ensuring better governance and public service delivery.
