Decision to Increase Salaries of Armed Forces Yet to be Taken

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has clarified that no decision has been made yet regarding increasing the salaries and budget of Armed Forces, but everything will be done to help them in every possible way. Speaking to the media, he said the federal government will help the Armed Forces as much as it can. He also acknowledged the critical role of national institutions in stabilizing the economy. Aurangzeb revealed that attempts were made to derail Pakistan’s case during the recent meetings of the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) Executive Board, including efforts to block the meeting or avoid discussion of Pakistan’s agenda. He assured that Pakistan’s case was taken up purely on merit. He confirmed that Pakistan has successfully met all IMF conditions and only failure to do so would have complicated the country’s position. He further confirmed that Pakistan enjoys full support from the IMF and that virtual negotiations will continue this week. The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to the IMF program and all agendas determined by the lender will be implemented as planned.