Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed that institutional reforms remain a top priority for the federal government. He said efforts are underway to digitise the economy, restructure public institutions, and ensure the merit-based hiring of technical experts. He made these remarks while chairing a review meeting on the progress of the Public-Private Partnership Authority (PPPA) in Islamabad.
During the briefing, the PPPA informed the prime minister that 15 technical experts have already been appointed in various federal departments. Work is in progress to fill 47 more positions. PM Shehbaz made it clear that there would be zero compromise on merit and transparency in the appointment process. He also stressed the need for qualified professionals to steer reforms in key sectors.
Officials shared that 30 candidates have been shortlisted for top posts, including CEOs, CFOs, and Managing Directors in seven important ministries. Interviews for posts in the Petroleum Division and the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission have already been held. The PM was also informed that federal ministries have nominated focal teams to develop sector-specific investment strategies.
Sectoral roadmaps for IT, telecom, railways, and tourism have been finalized. Meanwhile, frameworks for food security, maritime affairs, minerals, industry, housing, and energy are in the final stages. Investment pitch books covering 18 economic sectors have also been prepared to present to partner countries including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Azerbaijan, Qatar, and Kuwait.
PM Shehbaz concluded by reiterating that the success of these reforms depends on upholding merit and transparency. The meeting was attended by senior ministers including Ahsan Iqbal, Ahad Cheema, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Haroon Akhtar, and other key federal officials.