PM Shehbaz, MQM Discuss Federal Budget 2026-27 and Economic Priorities
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met a delegation of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) in Islamabad on Friday to discuss the upcoming federal budget and the country’s political and economic situation. The meeting focused on key economic priorities ahead of the Federal Budget 2026-27. As a result, both sides reviewed measures aimed at strengthening economic stability and public welfare.
MQM Convener and Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui led the delegation. Federal Minister for National Health Services Syed Mustafa Kamal, MNAs Farooq Sattar, R. Javed Hanif and Aminul Haque also attended the meeting.
Government, MQM Review Budget Priorities
Several senior cabinet members joined the discussions. These included Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah.
During the meeting, participants exchanged views on the Federal Budget 2026-27 and the broader economic outlook. Moreover, they discussed steps needed to maintain economic stability while addressing public concerns.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the government acknowledged MQM’s role as an important coalition partner. Officials also appreciated the party’s contribution to efforts aimed at improving economic conditions and supporting public welfare.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said cooperation between the government and MQM would continue in the national interest. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of working together to address economic challenges and serve the public effectively.
Rs17.5 Trillion Budget Set for Presentation
The government is expected to present a consolidated budget worth Rs17.5 trillion for the fiscal year 2026-27. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb will table the budget in the National Assembly.
The spending plan aims to meet International Monetary Fund conditions while supporting economic growth. In addition, the government has set a Federal Board of Revenue tax collection target of Rs15.267 trillion and projected GDP growth of 4.1 percent.
Officials plan to increase revenue and reduce expenditures. However, they also intend to protect low-income households through targeted relief measures. Consequently, the budget seeks to balance fiscal discipline with public support during a challenging economic period.
