ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly was informed on Thursday that the newly signed trade agreement with the United States is set to bolster Pakistan’s exports and bring positive momentum to the country’s economic growth.
During question hour, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani highlighted that the agreement includes a preferential tariff rate of 19% for Pakistan, which he described as the lowest in the South Asian region. He also mentioned that bilateral relations with the US have been strengthened through the government’s diplomatic efforts.
Additionally, the government has increased support for low-income households by expanding social welfare initiatives. A total of 716 billion rupees has been allocated for the Benazir Income Support Program, marking a 21% rise from the previous fiscal year.Addressing concerns raised by Asad Qaiser, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhary reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism under the National Action Plan, emphasizing that all necessary measures would be taken. He also pointed out that PTI and its affiliates were responsible for the May 9 incident.
Parliamentary Secretary for Education Farah Naz Akbar informed the assembly of ongoing efforts to modernize the national education system in line with technological advancements. She stated that the Higher Education Commission has been actively reviewing and updating curricula across undergraduate and postgraduate programs to reflect current international standards and market needs. She added that 150 academic disciplines have already been aligned with global trends.
Responding to a calling attention notice, Parliamentary Secretary for National Health Services Nelson Azeem assured members that there is no scarcity of life-saving medicines, including insulin and cancer treatments, and that their prices have not been increased.The House also approved the Pakistan Land Port Authority Bill, 2025, which was introduced by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry. The session is scheduled to resume tomorrow at 11:00 am.
