President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday emphasized the need for all possible efforts to alleviate the hardships faced by the common people amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. He expressed these concerns during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad.
During the discussion, the president directed the government to implement measures aimed at controlling inflation and guaranteeing the availability of essential goods. He highlighted that despite the challenging geopolitical and regional circumstances, including tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in supply chains, the government must prioritize providing maximum relief to the population.
The escalating military conflict in the Middle East presents serious threats to global energy supplies and economic stability. The conflict involving the US and Israel against Iran, along with heightened tensions in the Strait of Hormuz—a vital corridor for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments—has severely impacted worldwide energy distribution.
In response to rising global oil prices, the Petroleum Division recently raised petrol and diesel rates by nearly Rs15 per litre, effective for the upcoming week. Petrol prices surged from Rs399.86 to Rs414.78 per litre, while high-speed diesel increased from Rs399.58 to Rs414.58 per litre.
The meeting also covered issues related to Afghanistan, the overall national situation, and shifting regional dynamics. Participants paid homage to the martyrs of Marka-e-Haq and acknowledged the professional capabilities of Pakistan’s armed forces, reaffirming a steadfast commitment to national defense.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar, Senator Saleem Mandviwala, and Dr. Asim were among the officials present at the meeting.
