ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed the need to protect economically vulnerable groups amid rising energy costs, fuel supply pressures, and a complex regional environment.
Presiding a meeting along with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the president directed authorities to ensure coordinated decision-making by aligning economic management, energy planning, food security, and national security preparedness.
He also stressed awareness campaigns to reduce fuel consumption, promote public transport, and encourage shared mobility as part of a broader demand management strategy.
The meeting reviewed measures by provincial and regional governments to manage price pressures, ensure essential supplies, and mitigate public impact. Officials confirmed that fuel supplies remain stable, with adequate reserves and arrangements for the future.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar briefed participants on diplomatic outreach with Türkiye, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and upcoming visits to Beijing, strengthening strategic and economic ties.
President Zardari was informed that proposals to raise oil prices were repeatedly rejected, and funds saved through austerity—including cuts to the development budget and grounding 60% of official vehicles—are being directed to public relief.
Other attendees included Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and federal and provincial ministers, senior officials, and advisors across various portfolios, along with regional leadership.
The meeting also assessed the broader regional situation and its potential effects on Pakistan’s security, economy, and food security, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations while maintaining stability in challenging times.
