Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif received separate telephone calls from the Amir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and the Governor of Tabuk Province, Saudi Arabia, Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, both congratulating Pakistan on its successful diplomatic efforts leading to the historic signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran.
Qatar's Amir Appreciates Pakistan's Peace Efforts
During a warm and cordial conversation, the Amir of Qatar appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership and expressed Qatar's full support for Pakistan's peace initiatives. The prime minister thanked Sheikh Tamim for Qatar's consistent support, noting that the success was achieved thanks to the untiring efforts of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the important roles played by brotherly countries, including Qatar, according to a PM Office Media Wing press release.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the first round of technical-level talks held in Burgenstock and agreed that positive momentum must continue to ensure successful negotiations. They emphasized the importance of safeguarding the talks from detractors.
The Amir of Qatar also conveyed deep condolences over the tragic death of a Pakistani national in the fire incident at the Barzan gas facility in Ras Laffan Industrial City. The prime minister praised the Qatari leadership for generously hosting the Pakistani diaspora, which now exceeds 300,000 people.
Recalling his visits to Doha earlier this year, PM Shehbaz reiterated his invitation to the Amir to visit Pakistan soon. Sheikh Tamim expressed willingness to visit Pakistan later this year to discuss bilateral cooperation and regional developments. Both leaders agreed to maintain close coordination in the coming days.
Saudi Arabia's Tabuk Governor Congratulates PM
In a separate call, Governor of Tabuk Province, Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, congratulated the prime minister on Pakistan's remarkable diplomatic efforts that resulted in the Islamabad MoU. The prime minister thanked the governor and stated that Pakistan's peace efforts aim to ensure regional peace and stability with the support of brotherly countries, including Saudi Arabia.
Recalling historic brotherly ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, PM Shehbaz expressed deep gratitude to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for his affection for Pakistan. He extended an invitation to the governor to visit Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz Commends Economic Team for Relief-Oriented Budget
Separately, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his commitment to pass on the dividends of improved economic indicators to every citizen. He presided over a meeting of his economic team in Islamabad to commend their efforts in presenting a successful budget.
The prime minister said full relief has been provided to the salaried class, the business community, and the general public in the budget, in accordance with promises made to the nation. He commended the government economic team, especially the Finance Ministry, for formulating the upcoming fiscal year's budget with relief measures for the public and business community.
He paid tribute to the efforts of Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kiani, Finance Secretary, Chairman FBR, and the entire government team.
Participants stated that the government made successful efforts to provide maximum relief to the public despite limited financial resources. The economic team expressed gratitude to the prime minister for personally taking interest in resolving matters during the budget preparation process, including meetings with stakeholders, issuing instructions for public relief, and engaging with the IMF on measures aimed at providing relief to the people.
Under the prime minister's directives, multiple meetings were held regarding budget preparation, and guidance was taken from all segments of society to present a balanced budget and provide relief to the public and underprivileged segments. The economic team committed to continuing work under the prime minister's leadership for Pakistan's development and prosperity.
The National Assembly also approved Rs270.5 billion demands for grants as the government defended its budget.
