ISLAMABAD:
An important breakthrough has been achieved between the federal government and the PPP, with both sides agreeing to recommend that the federal budget for fiscal year 202627 be presented on June 10.
The development came during a key consultative meeting held in Islamabad, where Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb met senior PPP leaders to discuss the upcoming budget, development projects and broader economic priorities.
According to sources, the meeting included detailed deliberations on current expenditures and development spending priorities, particularly under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
Both sides reviewed ongoing and proposed development schemes, focusing on fiscal sustainability, public welfare measures and inclusive economic growth for the next financial year.
It was unanimously agreed during the meeting to recommend to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif that the budget be formally announced on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. The consultative process reflects continued coordination between coalition partners as the government finalizes its fiscal roadmap.
The meeting was attended by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, PPP leader Naveed Qamar, Senator Sherry Rehman and Senator Saleem Mandviwalla. Sindh Irrigation Minister Jam Khan Shoro also participated, while Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa represented the federal government alongside other senior officials.
Officials said key issues related to Sindh’s development and water sector projects were also discussed in detail, highlighting provincial concerns within the broader federal budget framework.
Finance Secretary Imdadullah Bosal and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial briefed participants on budgetary matters, revenue projections and fiscal planning.
The briefing covered the government’s economic strategy for FY202627 as well as targets for development and macroeconomic stability.
Both sides agreed to continue the consultative process with allied parties as budget preparation enters its final phase. Sources indicated that public welfare, development initiatives and economic stability have been identified as central priorities of the upcoming budget.
The meeting marks a significant step forward in aligning coalition partners on fiscal policy, with ongoing discussions expected to shape the final contours of the federal budget ahead of its formal presentation.
