Defence Minister Justifies IMF Delegation’s Meeting with CJP

Defence Minister Justifies IMF Delegation’s Meeting with CJP

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defended the recent meeting between the International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation and the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), stating that the judiciary’s role in maintaining financial discipline was crucial.

🔹 The minister clarified that Pakistan's financial survival depended on IMF support, and the meeting took place with mutual consent.
🔹 He emphasized that monetary and fiscal matters are regularly discussed with the IMF and that judicial backing for financial stability is necessary.

JUI-F’s Concerns Over IMF-CJP Meeting

JUI-F lawmaker Noor Alam Khan raised concerns over the meeting, questioning under whose authority the IMF met with the CJP.

🔹 He demanded clarity on what was discussed during the meeting.
🔹 He also asked whether the government would compromise Pakistan’s nuclear program if the IMF made such a demand.
🔹 The Supreme Court clarified that the meeting was held at the request of the Finance Division.

PPP Opposes Utility Stores Closure

PPP leader Raja Parvaiz Ashraf expressed concern over reports of closing Utility Stores, urging transparency.

🔹 He reminded that Minister for Production Rana Tanvir Hussain had previously assured the National Assembly that Utility Stores would not be shut down.
🔹 He warned that closing 7,000 outlets would impact 15,000 employees.
🔹 Minister Rana Tanvir Hussain confirmed that Utility Stores Corporation (USC) is being restructured but will not be shut down.

Government to Introduce 5G Services by Mid-Year

Lawmakers also raised concerns over slow internet speeds affecting businesses and students.

🔹 Parliamentary Secretary for IT Sabheen Ghoury assured that 4 new cables will be laid to enhance connectivity.
🔹 She revealed that 2 international companies, Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology Ltd (China) and Starlink (owned by Elon Musk), have approached Pakistan to provide satellite internet services.