LAHORE: Minister for Petroleum Division and PML-N leader Musadik Malik emphasized the government’s commitment to curbing inflation, stating that each ministry has been tasked with specific targets in this regard. Speaking at a news conference in Islamabad, Malik underscored Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s directive to prioritize job creation for the poor and alleviate their financial burden.
Malik highlighted the country’s progress towards development despite domestic and international challenges, noting a significant decrease in the inflation rate from 37% to 17%. He attributed this decline to concerted efforts, with food inflation dropping from 40% to approximately 11%. Additionally, measures are being pursued to reduce petroleum product prices.
In a call for political de-escalation, Malik urged former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek Insaf chief, to ease tensions and disown a controversial post regarding Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on his social media account. He emphasized PML-N’s commitment to reconciliation and dialogue, advocating for a charter of economy and democracy. Malik criticized the PTI government’s incarceration of PML-N leaders and accused them of double standards in dialogue efforts.
Malik expressed readiness for engagement with political parties, highlighting Nawaz Sharif’s presidency of PML-N and the party’s willingness to engage with diverse political forces, including the Sunni Ittehad Council.