ISLAMABAD: Former President Asif Ali Zardari called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss overall political and economic situation of country. In meeting held in Prime Minister House Pakistan Muslim League President and Pakistan Peoples’ Party co-Chair strategised revival of economy and aftermath of politically challenging economic decisions expected to be taken by PM in bid to revive stalled International Monetary loan programme.

Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, Economic Affairs Minister Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Railway Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique and Senator Saleem Mandviwala from Pakistan Peoples’ Party were also present.Two leaders discussed political scenario in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after formation of caretaker governments. Their participants reached consensus that revival of economy should be priority of coalition government.

Sources said Finance Minister Ishaq Dar briefed participants regarding economic situation and what impact would hard decisions have. However, participants decided to ensure mechanism that keeps inflation under control, they added.

Difficult decisions needed to be taken to revive IMF programme include raising power and gas tariffs, enhancing tax collection, imposition of petroleum development levy, market-determined dollar rate and more.

Published in The Daily National Courier, January, 27 2023

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