Defence Minister Khawaja Asif announced on Tuesday that Pakistan’s economy has exited a period of crisis, describing its status as having “left the intensive care unit.” Speaking in the National Assembly, he highlighted the country’s progress since the inaugural budget, noting that the International Monetary Fund’s bail‑out package, while stringent, has helped restore fiscal solvency.
Mr. Asif projected that Pakistan’s economic trajectory could yield a 6‑7 % growth rate within the next one or two years, while cautioning that the nation must eliminate excessive tax burdens to maintain solvency and foster a tax‑friendly environment. He urged citizens to view tax compliance with pride rather than seek evasion.
He also touched on security concerns in Balochistan, emphasizing that the region’s instability is not a recent development but a long‑standing issue that demands collective responsibility. “The House itself bears part of the responsibility if roads are not safe,” he said, calling for collaborative solutions.
Earlier in the session, Health Minister Mustafa Kamal criticised the National Finance Commission (NFC) award formula, arguing that it disproportionately favours populous provinces. He called for a more balanced approach that considers revenue, backwardness, and other factors, and suggested incentives for provinces that successfully manage population growth.
Kamal warned that without addressing population pressures, Pakistan could require 64,000 new primary schools and 135,000 additional hospital beds to support its 65 million young workforce. He praised the upcoming budget’s plan to eliminate the 18 % tax on contraceptives, foreseeing a substantial impact on birth rates.
Both ministers underscored the need for fiscal reforms and strategic planning to ensure sustained growth and public welfare.
