Islamabad, June 4, 2025 – The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved a comprehensive development plan worth Rs4.224 trillion for the fiscal year 2025–26.
The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and attended by senior federal ministers, advisers, and all four provincial chief ministers.
The NEC unanimously endorsed the Annual Development Plan (ADP) for 2025–26, aiming to accelerate growth and improve the lives of citizens through key development initiatives. Out of the total development budget, Rs1,000 billion has been allocated for federal projects, while Rs2,869 billion will be spent by the provinces. This decision reflects NEC’s focus on balanced national development through strong collaboration between the federation and the provinces.
The meeting approved the macroeconomic framework and key targets for the upcoming fiscal year. The NEC emphasized that ministries, departments, and provinces must work closely with the Planning Ministry to ensure timely and effective implementation of development projects. Priority sectors under this plan include health, education, housing, infrastructure, and the water sector.
In a major policy step, the NEC also approved the 13th Five-Year Plan (2024–2029) and the “Uraan Pakistan Framework,” noting that both are aligned to guide Pakistan’s long-term development goals. A third-party report on the ongoing development programs was also reviewed, and it was decided that future planning would benefit from its findings.
The prime minister stressed the importance of unity in national development efforts. He said the recent economic improvement was a result of collective efforts and cooperation between federal and provincial governments. “The country is now moving on a path of growth,” he added.
The NEC also reviewed revised economic indicators for 2024–25. It was informed that Rs3,483 billion had been spent under the current year’s national development program. The federal share was Rs1,100 billion, while the provinces spent Rs2,383 billion.
Looking ahead, the NEC approved a GDP growth target of 4.2% for 2025–26, up from 2.7% in the current fiscal year. Other positive indicators include a 30.9% rise in remittances and a current account surplus. The policy rate has also decreased to 11%, and private sector lending has reached Rs681 billion.
In response to India’s recent hostile statements, the prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s right to its water resources and announced plans for a special meeting with provincial leaders to form a strategy for water protection.
In closing, the prime minister praised the consensus shown during the NEC meeting. He said that national unity and cooperation are essential to ensure successful development and economic progress. The NEC will continue to play a vital role in shaping Pakistan’s development roadmap, with a strong focus on sustainable and inclusive growth.