Tarar hails KP chief minister’s participation in crucial meeting amidst regional tensions

Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar thanked Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for attending a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling his presence a strong signal of provincial and national unity amid global pressures.

In his interview with HUM News, Tarar said, “The attendance of chief ministers from all four provinces was a very positive development.” Afridi’s participation in the meeting was in the national interest, he added.

The meeting comes at a time of international uncertainty, including rising oil prices and regional geopolitical tensions.

Tarar said that PM Shehbaz and the Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar have taken significant steps to provide relief to the public. The initiatives include subsidies of over Rs130 billion and up to 50 percent cuts in government fuel prices. Cabinet members’ salaries and benefits have also been reduced under an austerity campaign, he added.

He said, “Options such as lockdowns, adjusting fuel prices, and targeted relief measures are under consideration.” A final decision would be announced within 24 to 48 hours, he hinted.

On the diplomatic front, Tarar said Pakistan’s growing role internationally. “A few years ago, Pakistan faced isolation, but today it has emerged as a serious and influential player in global affairs,” he said.

He praised the country’s efforts in promoting regional peace, noting that Pakistan’s contributions are being recognized worldwide.