PM Shehbaz briefs Nawaz on KP security situation, economic reforms

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday briefed Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif on the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the government’s measures, after the imposition of the governor’s rule, to address the province’s challenges during a meeting at the latter’s residence in Jati Umra, Lahore.

The two leaders also discussed the country’s political situation, ongoing economic reforms and measures to tackle challenges facing the country, according to state-run Radio Pakistan.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, Shehbaz apprised Nawaz of the federal government’s recent initiatives aimed at promoting development and prosperity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the state broadcaster reported.

The discussion comes amid the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in KP on October 11, with the federal government citing security concerns and what it described as the provincial government’s disengagement from the fight against terrorism.

The new administrative setup, led by Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, has identified improving counterterrorism measures as a top priority.

Both Shehbaz and Nawaz have defended the decision to impose emergency in the province. The prime minister previously said the federal government had been compelled to take the step because of security concerns, while Nawaz argued that the intervention should have come much earlier.

Shehbaz also briefed the PML-N president on the government’s ongoing economic reforms, challenges facing the country and measures being taken to address them.

The two leaders held detailed consultations on the country’s political affairs and steps to improve the economy, Radio Pakistan added.