During a meeting at the President’s House, President Asif Ali Zardari urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to prioritize public welfare, provincial rights, and economic stability in the upcoming federal budget for FY2026-27, scheduled for presentation on June 10. The meeting was part of broader pre-budget consultations involving key political figures and allied parties. Zardari emphasized the need to align the growth rate with public welfare initiatives, while also addressing national security and regional issues. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi briefed the president on his recent diplomatic visit to Iran. The discussions also included the recent elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, law and order, and other significant national matters. Additionally, a PPP delegation led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had previously raised concerns regarding taxation with Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, who assured that their proposals would be considered. The IMF has urged the government to implement additional budgetary measures worth Rs430 billion, prompting discussions on increasing provincial tax revenues without imposing new taxes on the already burdened populace.