Balochistan leadership backs austerity drive
Balochistan home minister Sarfraz Bugti. PHOTO: INP
The Balochistan government has finalised a strategy to tackle economic challenges, with Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti pledging relief for the poor while tightening government spending.
The meeting at the CM Secretariat, chaired by CM Bugti, brought together coalition partners, parliamentary leaders, and opposition members to deliberate on the province's future course of action in light of the prevailing economic situation.
Participants reviewed policy options aligned with federal guidance.
Chief Minister Bugti briefed attendees on the provincial government's plan to implement national-level austerity initiatives at the provincial level.
The session concluded with a rare consensus among all political stakeholders on adopting a cohesive and effective strategy to address fiscal pressures and ensure efficient use of public resources.
Key measures discussed included the prudent use of petroleum products, reduction of non-essential expenditures, and safeguarding state resources.
Participants reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring timely implementation of decisions and maintaining close coordination to navigate emerging challenges.
The meeting also focused on stabilising the provincial economy and extending relief to low-income groups, particularly in the face of rising inflation.
Officials underscored the urgency of taking actionable steps to shield vulnerable communities from the economic impact of global and regional developments.
Speaking on the occasion, Bugti described the cross-party agreement as a "clear reflection of seriousness and shared responsibility" in dealing with the current situation.
The meeting was attended by leading figures including Maulana Abdul Wasay (JUI-F), Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch (NP), Engineer Zamrak Khan Achakzai (ANP), Mir Muhammad Sadiq Umrani & Mir Zahoor Buledi (PPP), Mir Shoaib Nosherwani & Mir Asim Kurd Gello (PML-N), Mir Zia Langau (BAP), Mir Abdul Majeed Badini (JI), Mir Jehanzeb Mengal (BNP), and Maulana Hidayat-ur-Rehman via video link.