Islamabad: Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, chaired a meeting of the party's parliamentary members on Thursday, which was attended by members of the National Assembly and Senate, including First Lady and MNA Aseefa Bhutto Zardari. Following the meeting, Chairman Bilawal engaged with the media at the National Assembly, addressing various national issues and the party's stance on them.
According to Pakistan Peoples Party, Chairman Bilawal emphasized the essential role of the PPP in facilitating constitutional amendments and the federal budget. He noted that both he and President Asif Ali Zardari are in regular contact with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, but clarified that the government has yet to approach the PPP regarding any new constitutional amendments. He highlighted the party's contribution to the 26th and 27th Constitutional Amendments, particularly in enhancing provincial rights and increasing Balochistan's Senate representation.
Addressing economic concerns, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari pointed out the severe hardships faced by citizens due to inflation, and underlined that the PPP has consistently raised these issues at federal and provincial levels. He welcomed the government's decision to provide relief to the public, with all provinces agreeing to measures aimed at reducing inflation, including support for motorcycle users. Additionally, he mentioned the PPP's assistance to millions of farmers through the Benazir Kissan Card.
On the matter of national issues, Bilawal reaffirmed the PPP's support for the government on every constitutional amendment and national matter, including a united stance during tensions with India and Iran-US conflicts. He expressed concerns about the increasing economic difficulties and anticipated challenges in the upcoming budget, urging the government to make relief-oriented decisions. He announced the formation of a four-member team to present the PPP's budget proposals, consisting of Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Saleem Mandviwalla, Sherry Rehman, and Naveed Qamar.
Discussing NAB amendments, the PPP Chairman reiterated the party's historical stance for the abolition of the National Accountability Bureau, stating that although the PPP supported the new amendments due to government compulsions, it might reconsider its position if commitments to the party remain unfulfilled. He also commented on Pakistan's foreign policy, noting its alignment with national interests and the strengthening of relations with Saudi Arabia through defense agreements. Bilawal condemned attacks on Iran and the UAE, expressing hope for the success of peace efforts led by the Prime Minister and the Field Marshal.