PM Shehbaz likely to meet Bilawal Bhutto soon amid budget rift

Sources suggest that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to hold a meeting with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, following Bilawal's criticism regarding the exclusion of PPP's input in the preparation of the annual budget 2024-25.

According to reports, the prime minister recently had a phone conversation with the former foreign minister on the occasion of Eidul Adha. Subsequently, PM Shehbaz extended an invitation to Bilawal for a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House post-Eid, which Bilawal accepted.

The anticipated discussion between PM Shehbaz and Bilawal aims to address lingering issues between their respective parties, insiders disclosed.

Earlier reports indicated that the PML-N-led federal government has escalated efforts to reconcile with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) amidst disagreements over the budget. However, previous negotiations between the government and the PPP concluded without resolution. The PPP remains steadfast in its demands, particularly concerning the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) issue.

Despite assurances from the PML-N, the PPP has reiterated its commitment to protest until its concerns are acknowledged, with Bilawal and Aseefa Bhutto's absence from the budget session serving as a clear indication of their stance.

Finance Minister Aurangzeb presented a Rs18.877 trillion relief-focused federal budget for the fiscal year 2024-25, with the budget session initially experiencing delays due to PPP's reservations regarding development allocations.

While the PPP initially opted not to participate in the National Assembly's budget session, they later attended to fulfill the required quorum, albeit without the presence of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

Former Khurshid Shah highlighted the PPP's reservations concerning the PSDP budget, emphasizing the need for PPP's inclusion in budgetary discussions, particularly regarding provincial PSDPs.