ISLAMABAD: An important meeting of the federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will be held in Islamabad today, in which important decisions are expected at the national level.
The meeting will consider a six-point agenda, the aim of which is to ensure progress on important issues related to the economy, trade, social security and legislation. According to private TV channel the cabinet meeting is likely to approve a free trade agreement between Pakistan and Arab states. The aim of the agreement is to promote bilateral trade relations, increase exports and attract Arab investment to Pakistan. The draft of the Sea Cargo Shipping Documents Bill 2025 may also be approved in the meeting. This legislation aims to make the maritime trade process in the country more transparent, integrated and modern. The cabinet will also approve an extension of the import permit for unregistered medicines to ensure the continuous supply of essential medicines in the market, especially for patients who rely on specific and rare medicines. The meeting is also expected to bring good news for senior citizens. A 15% increase in EOBI pension is likely to be approved from January 1, 2025, which will provide financial relief to thousands of pensioners.
The cabinet agenda also includes the National Cannabis Control and Regulatory Policy 2025, which aims to establish clear, safe and scientific rules and regulations in this sensitive sector. The meeting will ratify the decisions of the Cabinet Committee on Legislation, while other important national issues, the current economic situation, and possible reform measures are also expected to be discussed.
