The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, convened to discuss a six-point agenda, which included key national and international issues.
The cabinet, however, deferred the decision to discuss a possible ban on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and implement Article 6 against three of its leaders, opting instead to consult with coalition partners, particularly the Pakistan People's Party, first.
Addressing the cabinet meeting, the premier said the group that caused havoc in the country on May 9, 2023 left no stone unturned in destabilising Pakistan. The same violent group was now indulged in new incidents with new tactics.
He further claimed that the way a campaign was being orchestrated against Pakistan, its peaceful citizens and the armed forces, and the way propaganda was being done against army chief General Syed Asim Munir and his family members on the official website of the PTI with their names, it has never been witnessed before.
“We will not tolerate any such steps against the country, its innocent people, and armed forces,” he said and called for national unity and solidarity to protect national interest. "We will not back down from taking any step to protect the interests of Pakistan."
Visa-free entry for investors
The cabinet also approved visa-free entry for investors, entrepreneurs, and residents from 126 countries. Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that this decision was part of the government's broader strategy to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.
"Visa fee will not be charged from visitors from 126 countries. This initiative is essential for foreign investment and will open Pakistan's doors to tourists and businessmen, accelerating economic activities on a large scale," he said, adding that it was a unanimous decision that such steps would bring investment in Pakistan.
Shehbaz said the measures for easing business were necessary for foreign investment, adding that the decision would open the corridors of Pakistan for tourists and businessmen. "Economic activities will accelerate on a large scale in the country," he maintained.
SECP Act special courts
The cabinet also approved the establishment of special courts under the SECP Act of 1997, aiming to streamline and expedite the legal processes related to the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.
Additionally, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Pakistan and Denmark was approved, further enhancing bilateral relations.
Other approvals included increasing the number of members of the Privatization Commission Board and appointing a new chairman for the Evacuee Trust Property Board. The cabinet also reviewed the report on the implementation of financial policies for the fiscal years 2012 and 2023.
Security concerns
Prime Minister Sharif expressed deep concern over the recent increase in terrorist activities, particularly in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He lamented the recent martyrdom of eight soldiers and police personnel, attributing the attacks on security institutions to an "organized conspiracy against Pakistan."
He said the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan was targeting innocent citizens in Pakistan, bent on destroying peace in the country. The government of Pakistan is working to protect its citizens and wants to settle the matter peacefully, he maintained.
"There will be peace, development and prosperity in the region," Shehbaz Sharif stressed. He also highlighted the role of neighbouring countries in the current wave of terrorism and reiterated the government's commitment to protecting its citizens and ensuring peace in the region.
International relations
Shehbaz told the meeting that he had taken up the issue of Palestine in a comprehensive manner at the Astana SCO Conference. He added that Pakistan had a crucial role to play in The Hague court's decision against Israel.
The cabinet addressed the recent attacks on Pakistani embassies in Germany and London, with Prime Minister Sharif calling these incidents "regrettable". He assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had taken immediate action and emphasized the government's duty to ensure the security of its embassies abroad.
"The ambassadors concerned should be reminded of the responsibility of the embassies," the PM stated.
Economic, social initiatives
Prime Minister Sharif discussed the recent staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), saying it came about after some difficulties. He also acknowledged the severe economic challenges faced by ordinary Pakistanis.
He noted that the IMF Board of Governors' approval to the agreement was pending and reiterated the government's efforts to change the country's economic fate.
