Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has extended an invitation to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to sign the Charter of Democracy, indicating that necessary modifications could be incorporated into the document. The invitation came during his address in the National Assembly, where he reflected on the agreement between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to the charter, aimed at reinforcing democratic practices and parliamentary norms.
According to Radio Pakistan, the Defence Minister critiqued PTI for its detrimental impact on the parliamentary system and democratic norms. He also brought attention to the sacrifices made by the people of Indian illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), noting their expressed solidarity with Pakistan.
In response to comments made by JUI (F) leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Advisor on Political Affairs Rana Sana Ullah Khan dismissed claims that the situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) was not addressed through dialogue. He detailed the negotiations held with an action committee on 38 demands, highlighting progress on each, including relief on electricity tariffs and wheat, and the provision of MRI machines at major hospitals.
Rana Sana Ullah emphasized the government’s dedication to AJK’s development and welfare, while also addressing the action committee’s demand to abolish 12 refugee seats in the AJK legislative assembly as unconstitutional.
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhary assured that elections in AJK would proceed as scheduled, expressing concern over foreign elements allegedly inciting violence to disrupt the electoral process. He noted that the action committee had closed negotiation channels.
Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari called for engagement with the Azad Kashmir government and protestors, advocating for local government elections nationwide, including in Islamabad and Punjab. He announced the PPP’s formation of a coalition government in Gilgit Baltistan, with plans to conduct local elections within 90 days.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb lauded the passage of the budget for the next financial year, commending various ministries and divisions involved. He highlighted the historic presentation of audit reports within the same fiscal year, reflecting a commitment to transparency and parliamentary oversight. The House passed the Federal Board of Revenue Amendment Bill, 2026, and approved supplementary grants for different ministries for 2024-2026, before being prorogued.