Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Cabinet to ensure that 60 percent of all public sector imports and exports are conducted via Gwadar Port. This directive is part of a broader strategy discussed during a Cabinet meeting aimed at enhancing trade efficiency and security. Additionally, the Cabinet approved measures to bolster the protection of sensitive data of the Federal Board of Revenue and embraced digital advancements across government operations.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Cabinet declared the infrastructure of the Federal Board of Revenue as critical under the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act 2016. This decision is intended to safeguard the board’s data against potential cyber threats. The Cabinet also extended Fly Dubai’s temporary operating permit for its flights between Lahore, Islamabad, and Dubai.

The implementation of e-office technology across 21 federal ministries was also highlighted during the meeting. This transition to digital communication is aimed at reducing both time and costs associated with traditional paper-based processes. The Cabinet was informed of the successful reduction in processing time for summaries in the Prime Minister’s Office, now capped at three days.

Further decisions included an exemption for the procurement of refurbished chrome books from certain regulatory requirements, subject to a third-party audit. The Cabinet also approved the signing of Memoranda of Understanding to foster international collaborations, including a textile agreement with China’s Shandong Ruyi Group and a diplomatic training accord with Serbia.

The Cabinet also addressed matters related to this year’s Hajj, allowing 46 Private Hajj Operators to proceed with arrangements, while emphasizing the resolution of ongoing legal disputes involving these operators.