AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has instructed relevant authorities to implement all necessary measures to alleviate the impact of rising prices on the general populace, with a particular focus on essential goods and services. He led an expanded consultative meeting in Islamabad attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, provincial leaders, and representatives from Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari issued these directives in response to pressures on oil and gas supplies, soaring energy costs, and the changing regional environment. He emphasized that economically vulnerable individuals must not be abandoned during these challenging times. He called for coordinated decision-making that aligns economic management, energy planning, food security measures, and security preparedness.
The President also highlighted the importance of public awareness initiatives aimed at reducing fuel consumption, promoting public transportation, and encouraging shared mobility practices as part of a comprehensive demand management strategy.
During the meeting, governments from the four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, briefed attendees on measures being taken to manage price pressures, ensure availability of essential supplies, and mitigate public impact, thereby enabling a unified national response.
The gathering also examined the broader regional situation and its potential implications for Pakistan’s security environment, economic outlook, and food security. Assurances were given that, despite the global crisis, timely decisions have ensured uninterrupted fuel supply, with sufficient stocks available to meet the country’s needs and future arrangements in progress.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar informed the meeting about the government’s proactive diplomatic efforts, including recent engagements with leaders from Trkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and other countries involved in ongoing conflicts. He also discussed his upcoming visit to Beijing.
Participants were informed that proposals to increase oil prices have been consistently rejected by the Prime Minister, and funds saved through austerity measures are being redirected towards public relief. The government has embraced austerity by reducing its own expenditure, including cutting the development budget and grounding 60 percent of official vehicles.
The meeting was attended by a wide range of senior officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and National Security Advisor Lieutenant General Asim Malik, among others. Notable provincial leaders, ministers, and advisers were also present, reflecting a comprehensive and inclusive approach to addressing the pressing economic challenges facing the nation.