Web Desk: Pakistan’s top leaders convened under the chairmanship of the President on Monday to discuss a range of national and global crises, including the proposed implementation of a smart lockdown across the country. Sources said the idea, aimed at controlling the pandemic while limiting economic disruption, faced resistance from provincial governments.
Despite the federal government’s suggestion, provinces reportedly opposed the nationwide smart lockdown and recommended that no restrictive measures be imposed. “No decision has been taken yet regarding a smart lockdown,” said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, highlighting the divergence in provincial opinions.
Leaders at the meeting vowed to tighten austerity measures and ensure full implementation of energy and fuel conservation initiatives. Authorities also emphasized the need for provinces to contribute to a proposed relief package worth 254 billion rupees.
Sohail Afridi noted that over 1.375 trillion rupees from the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award has not yet been distributed. The meeting further highlighted grievances from the former FATA region, whose residents allege that their rights are being claimed by other provinces.
In addition to domestic policy, the gathering addressed Pakistan’s position on international conflicts. Participants stressed that the country would not participate in any war while continuing to play a stabilizing role in the Muslim world, which frequently looks to Pakistan during crises.
The President underscored that Pakistan must act as a force for peace and that any decisions taken should avoid placing undue burdens on the public.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing dialogue with provinces and continued assessment of both domestic and international challenges. Officials indicated that future sessions would monitor the implementation of relief, austerity, and energy-saving measures, while keeping public welfare at the forefront.
