Shehbaz vows to take country out of economic crisis

MUZAFARABAD (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated on Friday the government’s determination to navigate the country through the economic crisis by implementing structural reforms in the economic sector, aimed at providing maximum facilities to the citizens.

He emphasized the government’s dedication to increasing the tax-to-GDP ratio, harnessing the vast potential of natural and agricultural resources, curbing smuggling, power theft, and reducing losses of state-owned entities (SOEs).

Speaking at a ceremony where cheques were distributed among those affected by torrential rains and snowfall, the prime minister called for setting aside differences in the national interest, emphasizing the importance of collective effort to ensure rapid national development.

He highlighted the current tax collection target for the fiscal year, underscoring that tax evasion remains a significant challenge that must be addressed to bolster the country’s resources. Shehbaz stressed the necessity of adequate resources for infrastructural development in crucial sectors such as health and education.

Addressing the issue of SOE losses, the prime minister revealed staggering figures, citing Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) losses at Rs825 billion and annual power theft losses at Rs 500 billion.

Expressing condolences for lives lost and damages incurred due to recent natural disasters in AJ&K, Shehbaz extended prayers for the departed souls and the swift recovery of the injured. He assured the Kashmiri people of Pakistan’s unwavering support in times of need.

During the ceremony, the prime minister distributed cheques, announcing financial assistance for affected families: Rs2 million each for the deceased, Rs500,000 each for the injured, Rs700,000 for fully damaged houses, and Rs 350,000 for partially damaged houses. He urged swift completion of surveys to expedite fund distribution by March 13.

Responding to a request from the AJ&K prime minister, Shehbaz pledged the availability of NDMA helicopters for emergency assistance in hilly areas. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, calling it the country’s jugular vein.

Shehbaz highlighted the issue of out-of-school children, proposing the utilization of mosques for educational purposes to reach those currently deprived of schooling.

Fatiha was offered for the recent victims of natural disasters in the area during the ceremony.

Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir Chaudhry Anwaar-ul-Haq expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for his support during the difficult times, informing about the casualties and damages incurred during recent rains, snowfall, and landslides in AJ&K.