ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly continued its debate on the federal budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, with treasury and opposition members presenting contrasting views on the government’s economic priorities and policy direction.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told the House that the country’s economy had emerged from a challenging phase and was now moving towards stability. He assured lawmakers that any reduction in international petroleum prices would ultimately benefit the public.
Highlighting foreign policy achievements, Asif described the upcoming US-Iran peace agreement, expected to be signed on Friday, as a landmark diplomatic success for Pakistan. He said the development had elevated the country’s global standing and represented a moment of national pride.
The minister also noted that Pakistan and Iran had strengthened bilateral ties over the past year and expressed optimism that the anticipated removal of restrictions on Iranian oil and gas exports would create significant economic opportunities for Pakistan.
Discussing regional security, Khawaja Asif referred to talks with Afghanistan, saying Islamabad had sought assurances that Afghan territory would not be used for activities against Pakistan. He reiterated that Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism would not be allowed to go in vain.
Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf defended the proposed budget, describing it as balanced and focused on sustaining economic progress while providing relief measures for citizens.
Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi said Pakistan had become the safest destination for investment in the region and credited the country’s leadership for improving its international image through diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace between Iran and the United States.
National Health Services Minister Mustafa Kamal stressed the importance of controlling population growth, arguing that rising population levels place increasing pressure on healthcare, education and housing resources.
He welcomed the government’s decision to abolish General Sales Tax on contraceptives, saying the move would support population management efforts. Kamal also revealed that a comprehensive population stabilisation roadmap had been prepared to increase public awareness on the issue.
PPP lawmaker Abdul Qadir Patel praised Pakistan’s role in facilitating peace efforts between Washington and Tehran, saying the country’s diplomatic initiative would be remembered for years to come.
Saba Talpur called for greater investment in Pakistan Railways, urging the government to allocate sufficient funds for improving the country’s rail infrastructure.
Opposition members, however, criticised the budget, arguing that it failed to address key economic challenges. Sana Ullah Khan Mastikhel said the financial plan lacked meaningful initiatives for youth, agriculture and industry, while Sehar Kamran maintained that the seven percent salary increase for government employees was inadequate.
Nauman Shaikh emphasised the need for employment-focused policies to steer the country toward sustainable growth.
Junaid Akbar questioned the government’s revenue projections, expressing doubt that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) would achieve its collection target for the next fiscal year.
PTI lawmaker Atif Khan also criticised the budget, calling it anti-people and pointing to a decline in foreign direct investment as a sign of broader economic challenges.
