Asif Ali Zardari on Monday directed the government to take all possible steps to ease the financial burden on citizens in light of the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and rising global economic pressures.
The president issued the instructions during a meeting with Shehbaz Sharif at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.
During the meeting, President Zardari stressed the need to control inflation and ensure the uninterrupted availability of essential commodities across the country. He said the government should prioritise public relief despite the difficult regional environment and disruptions affecting global supply chains.
The president noted that escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, were creating serious challenges for global energy markets and economic stability.
The ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz — a critical route for international oil and LNG shipments — have contributed to disruptions in energy supplies and a rise in global oil prices.
Amid increasing international fuel costs, Pakistan’s Petroleum Division last week raised petrol and diesel prices by nearly Rs15 per litre for the coming week.
Following the increase, petrol prices rose from Rs399.86 to Rs414.78 per litre, while high-speed diesel prices climbed from Rs399.58 to Rs414.58 per litre.
The meeting also reviewed developments related to Afghanistan, the country’s overall political and economic situation, and the evolving regional landscape.
Participants paid tribute to the martyrs of Marka-e-Haq and praised the professionalism and preparedness of Pakistan’s armed forces, reaffirming the country’s commitment to national defence.
The meeting was also attended by Ishaq Dar, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Mohsin Naqvi, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Saleem Mandviwalla, and Asim Hussain.