Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to finalize a national austerity plan in light of regional and global economic challenges. The meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s House and focused on reducing government spending while protecting economic stability.
Meanwhile, chief ministers from all four provinces, along with the chief minister of Gilgit-Baltistan and the prime minister of Azad Kashmir, were invited to participate. They joined the meeting through video link, ensuring broad national consultation and coordination on the austerity agenda.
According to official sources, members of the federal cabinet decided not to take their salaries for two months. In addition, the meeting approved final recommendations based on simplicity and cost-saving measures. All ministers and government employees were urged to adopt a culture of austerity in their official conduct.
Furthermore, the government decided that austerity measures would not apply to the industrial and agricultural sectors. At the same time, authorities agreed to closely monitor energy demand and supply to ensure efficient use of public resources and prevent unnecessary waste.
Finally, the prime minister directed that work-from-home systems and digital connectivity must remain uninterrupted. He emphasized providing smooth internet access for online workers, reinforcing that the national austerity plan aims to reduce burden while keeping essential services active and effective.