ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Tuesday that the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill, passed by parliament with a two-thirds majority on Monday, represents a “milestone for the country’s political and economic stability” and public welfare.
Presiding over a federal cabinet meeting, the prime minister emphasized that the legislation is crucial for judicial reforms and the enhancement of the judicial system. He expressed optimism that the amendment would ease the difficulties faced by citizens due to prolonged delays in the justice system.
Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that the 26th Constitutional Amendment was the result of extensive consultations among coalition and opposition parties, marking “an accomplishment of the vision of the Charter of Democracy.” He thanked the leaders of the supporting political parties for their cooperation.
The PM also celebrated the successful conclusion of the 23rd meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government, commending the performance of the involved departments. He remarked that the event had positively enhanced Pakistan’s image, stating, “Holding the summit, despite challenges such as terrorism and security concerns, was a great success for Pakistan.” He praised the efforts of the relevant ministries, law enforcement agencies, and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) for their work in beautifying Islamabad.
The prime minister mentioned the “successful” bilateral visit of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, the first in 11 years. He also noted that the government is working on a comprehensive plan to send relief supplies to Gaza and Lebanon, with a committee led by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal.
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Shehbaz Sharif requested a report on the increasing number of polio cases in the country this year and directed the relevant authorities to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the issue. The cabinet approved the restructuring of the Pharmacy Council of Pakistan.
Other agenda items included referring the Domestic Violence (Preventing and Protection) Bill 2024 to the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases. The bill aims to provide an institutional framework to curb domestic violence.
On the recommendation of the Education Ministry, the cabinet approved the appointment of Lt-Gen (retd) Moazzam Ijaz, Engineer Fahim Iqbal, and Asim Shahryar as private members of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission Board. Additionally, the cabinet approved Dr. Shafia Arshad as Chairperson of the National Council for Tibb and Dr. Rizwan Asif, Muhammad Khurshid Alam, Ikramullah, Moinuddin, and Dr. Attaullah as its members.
The cabinet designated the law ministry as the transmitting and receiving agency for applications under the Claims for Maintenance (Recovery Abroad) 1959. The approval of the Hajj Policy 2025 was postponed again due to the absence of Religious Affairs Minister Chaudhry Salik.
