Islamabad: The National Assembly today unanimously passed a resolution recognizing that Pakistan's sincere and tireless efforts for a US-Iran peace agreement have positioned the country as a trusted neutral mediator on the global stage. The resolution, moved by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, appreciated the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and the entire team engaged in the process of negotiations.
According to Radio Pakistan, the House noted with immense satisfaction and pride the landmark diplomatic breakthrough in terms of cessation of hostilities and signing of an agreement for peace and stability between the United States and Iran. The resolution congratulated and appreciated the leadership of Iran and the United States for signing the historic peace deal.
The National Assembly is continuing discussion on the budget for the next financial year. Raja Pervez Ashraf mentioned that the seven percent raise given to employees in the budget is not enough in view of inflation. He proposed raising salaries by at least ten percent to provide relief to employees. Raja Pervez Ashraf emphasized that all political parties should come together to chart the country's economic future and reduce its dependence on foreign loans. He stressed that investment by overseas Pakistanis should be encouraged, saying it will help create job opportunities in the country.
Muhammad Ijaz ul Haq stated that the GDP growth rate of four percent for the next financial year is insufficient, stressing that the growth rate must be increased to six to seven percent to reduce poverty and improve people's living standards. Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry has assured to incorporate all the practicable proposals presented by the opposition and the treasury benches. Winding up the discussion on the budget today, he said the government presented the best budget, keeping in view the available resources by consulting all stakeholders. The Minister thanked the opposition and coalition partners for their valuable input in the budget discussion.
He mentioned that a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the opposition will soon be held with a focus on sorting out issues and taking the country forward on the path of development and progress. Participating in the discussion, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani said the budget 2026-27 is people-friendly. He mentioned the relief given to the salaried class as well as other sectors, including agriculture and industries. He said different segments of society, including the business community, have appreciated the budget.
The House will now meet tomorrow at eleven in the morning.