KP budget to be presented on June 20: Minister

Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Minister Feroze Jamal Shah announced on Friday that the provincial budget is set to be presented on June 20, as the government strives to address pressing economic challenges amid the delay in finalizing the International Monetary Fund (IMF) deal with Pakistan.

In a press conference, Minister Feroze Jamal Shah stressed the importance of approving the budget in a timely manner, given the urgency of addressing the country's economic concerns. The delay in reaching an agreement with the IMF has heightened economic uncertainty, making it imperative for the government to formulate a comprehensive fiscal plan.

Shah utilized the opportunity to criticize the previous government, accusing them of widespread corruption and excessive borrowing. He asserted that the previous administration had borrowed over Rs500 billion without making significant progress in tackling the country's economic issues.

Meanwhile, the IMF deal, which holds potential to provide much-needed financial assistance to Pakistan, remains in a state of uncertainty. The delay in finalizing the agreement has raised concerns about the country's economic stability and the ability to implement necessary reforms.

The IMF deal is expected to address critical areas such as fiscal consolidation, revenue generation, and structural reforms. The assistance from the IMF would not only bolster the country's foreign exchange reserves but also restore investor confidence and attract much-needed investment.

Amidst these economic challenges, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government's focus on presenting the provincial budget signifies a crucial step towards addressing fiscal issues at the regional level. The budgetary decisions will play a pivotal role in stimulating economic growth, improving public services, and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources.

As the budget presentation approaches, all eyes are on the government's proposed measures to tackle the economic challenges and promote sustainable development. The provincial budget will not only outline the financial priorities but also serve as a roadmap to overcome the prevailing economic hurdles and steer the province towards a path of progress and prosperity.

Simultaneously, the government continues to engage in discussions with the IMF to reach an agreement that aligns with the country's economic goals and secures the much-needed financial support. The successful conclusion of the IMF deal would provide a significant boost to Pakistan's economic prospects and contribute to long-term stability.