Islamabad: The National Assembly resumed its session at the parliament house with Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq presiding over the proceedings. During a budget discussion, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif expressed solidarity with Iran, asserting that Pakistan will safeguard Iran’s interests at all international forums, including the United Nations.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Defense Minister condemned the Israeli attack on Iran and emphasized the fraternal relationship between the two nations. He called for a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to demonstrate the unity of the Muslim Ummah. Khawaja Asif reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast stance on not recognizing Israel or establishing any relations with it.
Addressing recent tensions with India, the Defense Minister remarked on the consequences faced by India for its aggressive actions against Pakistan, noting the resilience of Pakistan’s armed forces and citizens. He assured that Pakistan remains fully capable of defending itself, with the nation united behind its military.
On the topic of terrorism, Khawaja Asif highlighted the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s security forces and expressed confidence in the country’s ability to overcome terrorism. He also discussed the nation’s economic progress, noting the improved indicators and confidence from international financial institutions in Pakistan’s economic trajectory, predicting future robustness.
The session also saw various members participating in the budget debate. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig criticized the increase in withholding tax on markup and solar panels. Asad Qaiser opposed the sales tax on merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, advocating for a minimum support price for tobacco. Farooq Sattar called for reductions in electricity and gas prices.
Syed Naveed Qamar suggested reviewing energy and agriculture policies to provide more relief to farmers, while Zartaj Gul Wazir emphasized human rights and empowerment of women and youth in the budget. Jamal Shah Kakar praised the budget but stressed transparent allocation for Balochistan. Syeda Shehla Raza recommended improving existing educational facilities and appreciated the increased tax exemption slab on cash withdrawals.