Islamabad: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Planning, Development & Special Initiatives, led by Syed Abdul Qadir Gillani, gathered at Parliament House to deliberate on significant national issues. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to addressing national priorities with transparency and accountability.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee received a presentation regarding Emerson College, Multan, emphasizing the urgent requirement for a new academic block to accommodate emerging trends in artificial intelligence and information technology. Members explored potential funding sources to ensure the initiative’s timely execution. The committee also evaluated development projects under the Public Works Department, expressing dissatisfaction with the clarity of information on fund flow, disbursement, and project execution. Concerns were raised over transparency and effectiveness.

Key issues of illegal recruitments and encroachments in the capital city prompted strong disapproval due to the absence of the Chairman of the Capital Development Authority, resulting in the deferment of related agenda items. During discussions on China-Pakistan Economic Corridor projects, members highlighted the importance of prioritizing the western route and requested more detailed updates on these projects.

A significant decision involved forming a subcommittee under the leadership of Maj. Tahir Iqbal to review a project aimed at providing essential medicines to cancer patients, supported by Roche International. The committee stressed the necessity of expediting such public welfare initiatives. The meeting included attendance from several committee members and senior officials from the Ministry of Planning & Development, CDA, and Emerson College.