POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

President Zardari Urges Unity, Economic Reforms in Joint Parliament Session

President Zardari, in a joint session, praised economic progress but urged policy unity. He called for investment in agriculture, renewable energy & transport while warning against unilateral Indus River decisions.
2025-03-10
President Zardari Urges Unity, Economic Reforms in Joint Parliament Session

Addressing the joint session of Parliament at the start of the new parliamentary year, President Asif Ali Zardari praised the government's economic measures but emphasized the need for unity in decision-making, especially regarding climate change, population growth, and water distribution policies.

Opposition Slogans Disrupt Address

The session, chaired by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and Naat Rasool Maqbool . However, as the President took the stage, opposition members, led by Leader of the Opposition Omar Ayub, began chanting slogans and making noise.

Economic Stability & Challenges

President Zardari commended the government’s efforts in stabilizing the economy, highlighting:

  • Policy rate reduction from 22% to 12%
  • Record increase in foreign exchange reserves
  • Stock market reaching historic highs
  • Increase in foreign direct investment

However, he stressed the need for improving tax collection, public services, and development in backward areas.

Strengthening Democracy & Public Trust

The President called for:

  • Good governance and political stability
  • Strengthening the democratic system
  • Restoring public trust in the rule of law

He warned that Pakistan’s growing population and weak administrative planning have worsened governance challenges.

Infrastructure & Energy Development

Zardari emphasized domestic and regional connectivity as key to Pakistan’s prosperity, calling for:

  • Upgraded transport infrastructure, road networks, and modern railways
  • Investment in agriculture, fisheries, and livestock
  • Promotion of renewable energy and electric vehicles

He highlighted Sindh’s success in planting 2 billion mangroves, which generated financial gains through carbon credits and urged other provinces to follow suit.

Warning Against Unilateral Water Policies

A significant moment in the speech was his criticism of unilateral government decisions on Indus River canal projects. He urged the government to consult all stakeholders before making decisions that impact federal unity.

Firm Stance Against Terrorism

The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to counter-terrorism, commending security forces for dismantling terrorist networks through successful intelligence operations.

Session Adjourned Indefinitely

After his address, the Parliamentary session was adjourned indefinitely.