PTBP Web Desk
The Pakistan Broadcasters’ Association (PBA), Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday outlined the government’s achievements in steering Pakistan away from economic default, emphasizing the resumption of the country’s journey towards sustainable economic development. The Prime Minister’s speech was not just a review of past efforts but also a forward-looking statement on Pakistan’s economic future.
Since taking office, Sharif’s administration has been focused on achieving economic stability, which he claims has now been attained. He stated that the journey of economic development and growth, which was halted in 2018, has been reignited. This stabilization has been largely credited to the cooperative efforts of friendly and brotherly countries whose support has been pivotal in averting a default scenario.
Sharif highlighted the substantial decline in inflation and interest rates as a direct result of his government’s diligent economic policies. This macroeconomic improvement has set the stage for broader economic development. The Prime Minister also pointed to an increase in the country’s exports, alongside positive developments in the industrial and agricultural sectors, thanks to business-friendly policies.
Acknowledging the role of media in governance, Sharif emphasized that the relationship between the government and media is built on mutual trust. He reiterated the government’s commitment to media freedom, considering it an essential component for improving governance through constructive criticism.
The Prime Minister expressed optimism about “Uraan Pakistan,” a local development initiative, which he believes will succeed with the cooperation of media and other stakeholders. On the international front, he discussed the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), noting that its benefits are beginning to show. He vowed that all efforts are being directed towards the early completion of CPEC projects, despite attempts by anti-Pakistan elements to destabilize these efforts.
Discussing reforms within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), Sharif highlighted the implementation of faceless assessment to enhance the customs system’s transparency and efficiency. This reform aims at increasing tax revenues and curbing corruption. The digitization of FBR processes has also shown significant progress, contributing to better revenue collection and service delivery.
Sharif also touched upon the success in preventing smuggling of essential goods like petroleum products, sugar, fertilizers, and wheat, which has directly benefited the national exchequer. Additionally, he noted an increase in remittances, attributing this to growing trust among overseas Pakistanis in the government’s economic policies.
The Prime Minister concluded by asserting that Pakistan’s identity on the global stage has been restored through diplomatic successes and expanded relationships with friendly nations. He emphasized that despite political sacrifices, his government would continue to work tirelessly for Pakistan’s economic security and development.
The delegation from PBA praised Sharif’s efforts in negotiating with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to reduce electricity prices, showcasing the government’s responsiveness to public concerns. They also stressed the need for political stability, urging the government to play a positive role.
