Islamabad: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb on Monday pledged to streamline processes, provide necessary incentives, and ensure a stable regulatory framework for foreign investors.

He was talking to a delegation of International Investors that called on him in Islamabad today to delve into the economic dynamics and investment prospects of Pakistan.

The Finance Minister welcomed the delegation and assured that the present government has taken all pragmatic measures to facilitate the business environment in Pakistan.

 During the session, he highlighted the macroeconomic stability in terms of reduced inflation and surge in stock market signaling burgeoning investor confidence.

Moreover, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb shed light on the government's tax initiatives, emphasizing the agenda to broaden the tax base and expedite the digitalization process of the Federal Board of Revenue.

Privatization endeavors, commencing with Pakistan International Airlines, were also delineated, with a commitment to extend privatization efforts to additional sectors in the near future.

The Minister for Finance and Revenue shared that Pakistan is gradually moving toward economic stability and it is high time to invest in Pakistan.

He stressed upon the potential of IT and Agriculture sector in Pakistan and the need for local as well as international investment in these sectors to boost the country's economy.

The delegation discussed the economic situation and outlook of the country with the Finance Minister.

Investors held a comprehensive discussion with the Finance Minister regarding IMF program, upcoming budget targets, market perception and outlook, as well as the situation of foreign reserves.

Investors were encouraged to explore opportunities with confidence, as the government remains dedicated to facilitating their ventures and contributing to the nation's prosperity.

Quetta: President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday reached Quetta on two-day official visit.

He was received by Governor Balochistan Jafar Khan Mandokhail, Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti, provincial ministers and parliamentarians at the airport.

During the visit, President will be briefed about development projects and law and order situation in Balochistan.

Members of Balochistan will also call on the President and Chief Minister Sarfarz Bugti will host dinner in his honor.

Lahore: Babar Azam, Pakistan's white-ball team captain, provided insights into the selection committee's choice to omit wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Haris and bowling all-rounder Aamir Jamal from the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England.

Babar clarified that Haris was left out of the squad due to the surplus of options in the top order. Despite being given opportunities post the T20 World Cup, Haris struggled to leave a mark during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season nine, resulting in his exclusion.

Speaking to the media before the team's departure to Ireland on Monday, Babar stated, "With me, Rizwan, Saim, and Fakhar occupying spots in the top order, there were limited opportunities available for Haris."

Regarding Aamir Jamal, Babar stressed that while he excels in Test cricket, his skills are not yet honed for T20 cricket. Babar expressed confidence in Jamal's abilities but emphasized the need for more time and matches to adapt to the shorter format.

In an unrelated development, test cricketer Ahmed Shehzad levied serious allegations against Muhammad Haris, accusing him of orchestrating a campaign to reclaim his spot in the national side. Shehzad criticized Haris's performance in domestic cricket and PSL season nine, questioning his eligibility for selection.

It's noteworthy that Mohammad Haris was not included in the squad announced for the forthcoming series against Ireland and England.

Pakistan Squad for Ireland & England Tour:

Babar Azam (c), Abrar Ahmed, Azam Khan, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Iftikhar Ahmed, Imad Wasim, Abbas Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Irfan Khan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayyub, Salman Ali Agha, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi, Usman Khan

Schedule of Matches:

10 May – vs Ireland, 1st T20I, Dublin

12 May – vs Ireland, 2nd T20, Dublin

14 May – vs Ireland, 3rd T20I, Dublin

22 May – vs England, 1st T20I, Leeds

25 May – vs England, 2nd T20I, Birmingham

28 May – vs England 3rd T20I, Cardiff

30 May – vs England, 4th T20I, The Oval