Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that both the Centre and provinces worked in close coordination and took decisions in the best interest of Pakistan during the NEC meeting Pakistan held in Islamabad on Wednesday.
The meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC), the country’s highest economic decision-making body, was convened to finalise development plans ahead of the upcoming federal and provincial budgets for the fiscal year 2026–27.
Addressing the session, PM Shehbaz Sharif said that extensive consultations were held between the Centre and provinces on key economic matters. He said the government ensured that all decisions taken in the NEC meeting Pakistan reflected national priorities and collective economic goals.
The prime minister thanked all chief ministers for their cooperation and noted that despite challenges, Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability had improved. He stressed that the next phase must focus on economic growth, job creation, and increasing exports.
He also highlighted discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), saying the government’s efforts were appreciated during a recent conversation with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. He said Pakistan remained committed to staying on track with its economic programme.
PM Shehbaz further said that rising global oil prices had created significant pressure, but coordinated efforts between the Centre and provinces helped maintain stability and avoid shortages or disruption in fuel supply.
He added that unity among all stakeholders, including provincial governments, played a key role in ensuring continuity of economic activity during difficult periods. According to him, decisions taken in the NEC meeting Pakistan helped maintain public confidence.
Concluding his remarks, the prime minister said that future progress depends on stronger federal-provincial integration, improved economic planning, and sustained focus on development projects under the upcoming budget cycle.
