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KPK
Amir Muqam Pledges Continued Support for Journalists
By Sajid Shah
SHANGLA: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON, Engr Amir Muqam, presented a grant cheque worth Rs500,000 on behalf of the Federal Government to Shangla Press Club President Syed Sajid Shah during a ceremony held at Sangota House, Swat.
The event was attended by members of the Shangla Press Club, local journalists, community representatives and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Engr Amir Muqam described journalism as the fourth pillar of the state, stressing that no democratic society can flourish without a free, responsible and independent media.
“A free and responsible press is the cornerstone of a strong democracy,” he said, adding that journalists serve as the voice of the people by highlighting public issues and conveying them to the corridors of power.
The Federal Minister praised the dedication of Shangla’s journalists, saying that despite limited resources, they continue to promote truth, transparency, public awareness and accountability while making a valuable contribution to society.
He emphasized that ethical, balanced and professional journalism strengthens democratic institutions, promotes good governance and builds public trust. He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the welfare of journalists and strengthening media institutions across the country.
On the occasion, Shangla Press Club President Syed Sajid Shah thanked Engr Amir Muqam and the Government of Pakistan for approving the Rs500,000 grant, saying the financial assistance would help meet several pressing needs of the Press Club and enhance its professional capacity.
He also informed the Federal Minister about other challenges facing the Press Club, particularly the need for a modern IT Lab to equip local journalists with digital media and information technology skills.
Responding to the request, Engr Amir Muqam assured the delegation that the establishment of a modern IT Lab for the Shangla Press Club would be taken up on a priority basis and that every possible effort would be made to address the matter.
The ceremony concluded with participants expressing gratitude to the Federal Minister for his continued support for the journalist community and his commitment to strengthening media institutions in Shangla.
National
Pakistan Cuts Debt Growth, Boosts Economic Stability
PROVINCE REPORT
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s central government debt recorded its slowest annual growth in at least 15 years during the current fiscal year, reflecting the impact of ongoing fiscal reforms, according to a statement shared by Finance Minister’s Adviser Khurram Shahzad on X.
Citing State Bank of Pakistan data, the statement said central government debt grew by just 5 percent this fiscal year, compared with 23 percent in FY2023. It added that the slowdown reflects the government’s strategy to improve debt management and reduce borrowing costs.
The statement clarified that reports claiming Pakistan’s debt has reached Rs97–100 trillion combine central government debt with broader liabilities. It said central government debt currently stands at approximately Rs81.9 trillion, while the country’s debt-to-GDP ratio has declined from around 76 percent in FY2020 to about 68 percent in FY2026.
According to the statement, external debt has also fallen from 28 percent to nearly 21 percent of GDP, while the average maturity of domestic debt has increased from 2.8 years to 3.8 years, reducing refinancing risks.
The government also reported retiring Rs4.7 trillion in expensive debt and reducing annual interest payments by nearly Rs2 trillion, creating additional fiscal space for development spending.
The statement further highlighted improvements in Pakistan’s external sector, including higher foreign exchange reserves, two consecutive years of current account surpluses, and three straight years of primary fiscal surpluses, describing these developments as signs of improving debt sustainability and economic stability.
