Army backs govt’s five-year economic plan

The 11th Apex Committee Meeting of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was held on Thursday to assess various initiatives being led through the SIFC platform.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the 11th Apex Committee Meeting of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), with key officials in attendance, including Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, federal cabinet members, provincial chief ministers, and senior government representatives. 

During the meeting, the Army Chief reiterated the Pakistan Army’s strong commitment to supporting the government’s efforts to ensure economic stability, peace, and security. The Secretary of the Apex Committee provided a detailed briefing on SIFC’s strategic priorities and its role in supporting the National Economic Transformation Plan 2024-2029, also known as Uraan Pakistan. 

The committee expressed satisfaction with the progress made in improving Pakistan’s macroeconomic conditions and emphasized the importance of collective efforts to sustain economic growth and ensure that its benefits are shared by the general public.

The committee approved an action plan aimed at optimizing Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to revitalize the country’s industrial sector. The proposal for the National Minerals Harmonization Framework was also reviewed and approved, marking an important step towards better resource management. 

Additionally, the forum was updated on Human Resource Development (HRD) initiatives designed to improve skills and align them with global standards of accreditation.

Provincial Chief Ministers presented ongoing projects in their regions, which are expected to contribute significantly to national economic growth. 

The Prime Minister commended the efforts of SIFC, ministries, and stakeholders in laying the foundation for future initiatives in 2025. He emphasized the importance of cooperation at all government levels to advance the country’s broader interests.