PM reviews reform plans aimed at investment, long-term growth

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a review meeting on Tuesday to assess sector-specific reforms and policy measures intended to raise investment and support broader economic growth, according to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

The PMO said the prime minister told participants that expanding industry and trade, along with increasing foreign investment, was essential for the country’s sustainable economic development. He said the government’s priorities included effective policy steps to boost exports and increase domestic industrial production.

According to the PMO, Shehbaz Sharif said reforms in industry, trade and other parts of the economy should be designed around long-term economic efficiency and public welfare. He also said the government was actively preparing a comprehensive strategy to meet future energy requirements through alternative energy sources.

The prime minister further stressed the need for a comprehensive and effective electric vehicle policy to address energy efficiency requirements and affordable transport. The PMO said he directed that all ministries and experts ensure meaningful consultation for the incorporation of modern technology across different sectors.

He also called for close cooperation and coordination among ministries in the formulation and implementation of effective development policies. Administrative transparency and better performance across reform efforts and initiatives remain the government’s top priority, the PMO quoted him as saying.

Officials brief PM on proposals

The meeting was given a briefing on a range of policy proposals currently under consideration by the relevant ministries, according to the PMO.

Those present included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar, Climate Change Minister Dr Musaddiq Malik, Power Minister Sardar Owais Leghari, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervez Malik, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar, Director General of the Special Investment Facilitation Council Major General Asad Ur Rehman Cheema, and officials from relevant institutions.

The meeting focused on policy direction in sectors linked to investment, trade, energy and industrial development, as the government reviews reform options through inter-ministerial consultation, according to the PMO.