ISLAMABAD(National Times)- The National Assembly was informed on Thursday that the recent trade deal signed with the United States will boost Pakistan’s exports and positively impact the economy. Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani told the house during question hour that the 19% tariff rate offered to Pakistan is the lowest in the South Asian region. He said that bilateral relations with the United States have strengthened as a result of government’s efforts. He said the government has increased its support for low income families by expanding funding for social welfare programs. He said a total of seven hundred and sixteen billion rupees have been allocated for Benazir Income Support Program, reflecting a twenty one percent increase compared to the previous year. Responding to the points raised by Asad Qaiser, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhary stated in categorical terms that action, under National Action Plan, will be ensured at all costs to eradicate the menace of terrorism from the country. He said PTI and its workers were behind the May 9 incident.
Bilal Azhar Kayani assigned additional role as minister of state for finance
Parliamentary Secretary for Education Farah Naz Akbar told the house that multiple initiatives have been taken to align the national education system with evolving technological advancements. She said the higher education commission has been regularly reviewing and updating curricula across undergraduate and graduate programs to incorporate global trends and market demands. She said curricula of one hundred and fifty academic disciplines have been developed in alignment with international standards. Responding to a calling attention notice, Parliamentary Secretary for National Health Services Nelson Azeem said that there is no shortage of life saving medicines including insulin and cancer drugs in the country. He said there is also no increase in their prices. The House passed Pakistan Land Port Authority Bill, 2025. It was moved by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry. The house will now meet on Friday at 11:00 am.
