The budget disagreement between PML-N and PPP dissolved on Thursday after PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, confirming PPP’s support for the finance bill.
The two parties resolved their differences and agreed to cooperate. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar mentioned that the PPP had minor reservations, which the government committed to address through discussions.
The government has formed a committee, led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, to continue talks with the PPP, building on the discussions between Sharif and Bhutto-Zardari.
Meanwhile, PPP sources indicated that the Premier and the party chairperson found common ground on most issues despite earlier frustrations about the budget process. A new committee aims to mend this rift.
At the meeting, Bhutto-Zardari highlighted the challenges PPP faces in Punjab, orchestrated by the PML-N government there. Insiders suggest a joint committee session could occur as soon as Friday to advance these discussions.
The PPP has voiced dissatisfaction with PML-N’s privatization strategy and concerns over the development budget.
Following the finance minister’s budget announcement, PPP Vice President Sherry Rehman reaffirmed the party’s support, rooted in a February agreement aimed at the national benefit. This agreement included predefined provincial development plans.
A statement from the PM’s Office noted that Thursday’s meeting, which included prominent leaders from both parties, emphasized the budget’s potential benefits for the impoverished and the need for unity among allied parties.
The statement highlighted positive economic indicators and a robust stock market, evidencing business confidence in the government’s fiscal strategies. PM Shehbaz urged continued collaboration for national progress and outlined the budget’s relief measures for citizens.
The PPP-PML-N partnership remains strong, though the PPP abstained from joining the cabinet, holding out for significant constitutional roles instead.
On the budget day, after addressing PPP’s concerns, which delayed proceedings, Deputy Prime Minister Dar managed to mitigate the party’s initial decision to boycott, ensuring limited PPP presence in the session.
During his Thursday discussion with Bhutto-Zardari, PM Shehbaz committed to resolving outstanding issues to prevent further discontent within the PPP.
