Pakistan finance minister terms backing armed forces a 'national cause'

Pakistan Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb reaffirmed the government's commitment to fully support the Pakistan armed forces, stating that this support is not only for the military but a national cause.

Talking to media in Islamabad on Monday, the finance minister revealed that attempts were made to derail Pakistan's case during the Executive Board meeting of the International Monetary Fund. “There were efforts to delay the meeting and prevent Pakistan’s agenda from being discussed,” he said. However, Pakistan’s case was ultimately reviewed on merit, he noted.

Aurangzeb emphasized that Pakistan had met all targets under the IMF program. “Had we failed to meet those targets, it would have created serious challenges,” he added. He confirmed that the implementation of the IMF program will continue.

He informed the media that the IMF mission has already left Pakistan, but virtual discussions will continue throughout the current week.

“Our talks with the IMF have been constructive, and we have their full support,” the minister noted.

Addressing speculation about changes in pay structures, Aurangzeb stated that no decision has yet been made regarding civil or military salaries.

Earlier, Speaking at a seminar organized by Karandaaz, Aurangzeb highlighted the importance of fiscal discipline, sustainable reforms, and investment in human capital for Pakistan’s long-term economic stability.

"Today, the world acknowledges Pakistan’s improved economic performance," Aurangzeb stated. He emphasized that the government is pursuing a stable and long-term solution to economic development rather than relying on short-term growth boosts.

“If we lift import restrictions and abandon fiscal discipline, growth may temporarily rise,” he said, “but it would come at the cost of macroeconomic stability.” He added that economic transformation is essential for sustainable development.

The minister acknowledged the burden on salaried individuals, stating that 80% of a salaried person’s consumption depends solely on their income. He questioned why such individuals should be made to fill complex income tax forms and promised a simplified tax filing process for the salaried class.

Aurangzeb reiterated the government's commitment to strict right-sizing of institutions and reduction of public expenditures through financial discipline.

Highlighting the dangers of climate change, he warned that the current population of 250 million is already under stress due to environmental challenges. “If we grow to 400 million without addressing these issues, the problems will become critical,” he cautioned.

He called for greater investment in human resources and climate resilience, stressing that no real progress can be achieved without improving girls’ school enrollment rates and tackling malnutrition among children.