Govt to extend all-out support to armed forces, says Aurangzeb 

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Aurangzeb has vowed to extend all-out support to armed forces of Pakistan no matter what, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

Talking to media persons in Islamabad on Monday, Aurangzeb said: “This is not just for the armed forces but it is also for Pakistan.”

Aurangzeb said that attempts were made to derail IMF loan programme as Pakistan’s enemy tried to halt the Board meeting which was going to be held for approval of the loan programme.

The finance minister said that Pakistan’s loan programme was discussed purely on merit. “If Pakistan failed to fulfill IMF’s requirements then there was a possibility for facing difficulty for obtaining loan,” he added.

He said that Pakistan will continue to implement reforms which are essential for the IMF loan programme.

Aurangzeb said that he held comprehensive discussions for IMF loan programme and the Pakistan enjoys full support of the IMF. He said that during current week virtual meeting with IMF will continue. 

In reply to a question, Aurangzeb said no decision has yet been taken about increase in salaries of government employees and armed forces.

Earlier addressing a gathering, Aurangzeb said that the entire world is stunned by the development and progress of Pakistan’s economy.

He said that the government was taking effective measures to decrease burden of tax on salaried persons.

Aurangzeb said that burden of loans will be decreased gradually and cut in interest rate also put a positive spin on national economy.

The minister said that drop in human interference in Federal Board of Revenue will bring prosperity in the national economy.

Aurangzeb said the upcoming budget will encapsulate the strategic direction for the country's economy. He noted that the budget is not solely about revenue and expenditures, but must also provide strategic direction. He said it will be their effort to make the budget document more strategic this time.

The minister emphasized the need for export-led growth. He expressed satisfaction over the economy surpassing the four hundred billion dollar mark.

Aurangzeb stated that the international community is recognizing Pakistan’s economic turnaround and the macroeconomic stability the country has achieved.

He said the government would stay the course on structural reforms currently underway in the areas of taxation, energy, state-owned enterprises and the right-sizing of the federal government in order to achieve sustainable growth. He said the process of privatization of SOEs will be accelerated.