ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday termed the federal budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 as a balanced economic roadmap designed to strengthen exports, support vulnerable segments of the society and maintain macroeconomic stability amidst regional and global challenges.
Speaking during a meeting with women parliamentarians from the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the prime minister thanked the lawmakers for their active participation in the ongoing debate on the budget and highlighted the key measures included in the government’s fiscal plan.
According to officials, the prime minister said the government has prepared the budget with a focus on sustainable economic growth rather than short-term measures. He expressed confidence that the fiscal plan will help Pakistan transition towards a more productive and export-oriented economy by providing targeted relief to citizens.
Shehbaz Sharif said that empowering women is a central objective of the government’s policy agenda. He said that several measures have been introduced to increase women’s participation in economic activities and strengthen their representation in mainstream development programs.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of regional peace for economic prosperity. Referring to recent diplomatic developments in the region, he said that Pakistan has consistently supported peaceful solutions and constructive dialogue. He added that long-term peace would create opportunities for trade, investment and economic cooperation across the region.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister appreciated the diplomatic initiatives and the efforts of key government and security officials for national stability. He said that coordinated efforts among institutions have helped Pakistan navigate a challenging international environment.
Talking about economic management, Shehbaz Sharif recalled government initiatives aimed at protecting low-income households from the effects of global inflationary pressures. He said that federal and provincial authorities have worked together to introduce relief measures and maintain economic stability during difficult times.
The prime minister said that future development priorities will focus on water resources management, information technology, agriculture and mineral development. He said that these sectors have significant potential to create jobs, increase exports and strengthen Pakistan’s long-term economic outlook.
The meeting participants appreciated the government’s commitment to women’s development and shared suggestions for public welfare projects in their constituencies. The lawmakers also discussed development priorities and local issues that require federal support.
The federal budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 includes several measures aimed at boosting economic activity, including tax relief for salaried individuals, incentives for exporters, support for the housing sector and policies to encourage investment in productive industries.
Economists see the budget as an attempt to balance fiscal discipline with growth-oriented policies. The government has said that improving productivity, broadening the tax base and promoting exports will remain key objectives during the coming fiscal year.
Officials hoped that the implementation of these measures would help strengthen investor confidence and put the economy on the path of sustainable growth and development.
