The federal cabinet, which met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the chair on Thursday, decided to get the federal budget for the next financial year (FY), 2025-26, passed by the National Assembly (NA), reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the MNAs to ensure their presence at the NA session at the time of the passage of the budget.
The cabinet was, on the occasion, taken into confidence on incorporating the amendments suggested by members of the parliament (MPs) in the financial budget.
The cabinet also approved a resolution in which the role of Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during the recent crisis with India was praised.
It expressed the satisfaction that finally, the tensions between Israel and Iran had lessened.
The Ministry of Energy’s agenda was also approved.
The cabinet also decided to give the power to determine the petroleum levy to the Petroleum Division.
PM commends economic team
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said that Pakistan would win the war against terrorism because the country’s army was giving sacrifices against the scourge.
Speaking during the cabinet meeting, Shehbaz Sharif acknowledged the abilities of Field Marshal Asim Munir, adding US President Donald Trump too had praised the field marshal during the meeting between the two at the White House a few days ago.
The prime minister termed the ceasefire between Iran and Israel a good omen. “Pakistan supported Iran wholeheartedly throughout the conflict,” he said, adding that the way Iran thanked Pakistan for that support was unprecedented. “Iran gave a befitting reply to Israel,” PM Shehbaz said.
He further said that Pakistan had condemned the attack on Qatar. He told the cabinet that all steps would be taken to ensure peace during the holy month of Muharram.
The prime minister thanked President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for supporting the passage of the budget.
Shehbaz Sharif lauded the entire economic team, particularly Finance Minister Aurangzeb, for their hard work and dedication in preparing the federal budget for the fiscal year 2025-26.
He also expressed gratitude to the federal cabinet and the allied political parties for their support in finalizing the budget.
He also spoke on the recent regional developments and welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Iran, terming it a crucial step in avoiding further escalation and loss. He thanked God for the peaceful resolution and acknowledged the important role played by various countries, including Saudi Arabia, in ensuring the ceasefire.
He said Iran openly thanked the people of Pakistan, its political parties, military, and political leadership for their role in the ensuring ceasefire between the two countries.
“The Iranian leadership specifically named the President of Pakistan—himself, and the Field Marshal—for their contribution to the ceasefire efforts”, the prime minister said.
As regards the attack by Iran on Qatar, the prime minister said Pakistan had also issued a condemnation statement, reiterating Pakistan’s strong ties with the brotherly nation.
Regarding Muharram ul Haram, Shehbaz Sharif directed the concerned authorities to ensure strict law and order during processions and majalis across the country. He also instructed the interior minister to coordinate with provincial governments, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir to maintain peace and security during the month.
Earlier the cabinet offered Fateha for Major Moeez Abbas Shah Shaheed who embraced martyrdom in an operation against the terrorists in South Waziristan.
Reporter: Awais Kiyani