PM Shehbaz suggested reaching out to Imran Khan, India

Karachi: A leading figure in the business community urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to extend diplomatic gestures not only to neighboring countries like India but also to Imran Khan, currently incarcerated in Adiala jail.

Arif Habib, a prominent businessman, voiced this recommendation during a question and answer session with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Karachi on Wednesday. The prime minister was engaging with local business leaders to address their concerns and queries regarding trade and the economy.

Habib commended PM Shehbaz for his efforts in securing a bailout package from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Referring to his meeting with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva last June, Habib proposed that the prime minister should reach out not only to neighboring countries like India but also to Imran Khan, imprisoned in Adiala jail. He believed that such gestures could contribute to stabilizing the country.

In response, the premier reiterated his commitment to close collaboration with the Sindh government for the betterment of Pakistan. He assured Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah of the federal government's full support in addressing the issues raised by the provincial authorities.

The prime minister's reassurance came after the provincial chief minister expressed grievances about the lack of federal support for Sindh's inclusion in new development projects. CM Murad Ali Shah highlighted the neglect of Sindh by the federation in recent years, stressing the need for greater attention to the province's developmental needs.

Recognizing the significance of cooperation between federal and provincial governments, PM Shehbaz emphasized that collaboration is essential for the progress and prosperity of the nation. He pledged unwavering support to CM Murad Ali Shah, assuring him of his readiness to provide any necessary assistance.