The Cabinet approved a 25% reduction in
the provincial quota for medical and dental
colleges managed by the federal government
Associated Press of Pakistan
Islamabad: The federal cabinet ratified the Middle East Green Initiative charter on Thursday. This initiative aims to restore 200 million hectares of land and plant 50 billion trees.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chaired the meeting at the Prime Minister House, as per a PM Office release. Officials from the Ministry of Climate Change informed the forum that Pakistan is a founding member of the Charter. The Ministry recommended the cabinet’s approval, which was granted.
Approval of Key Ordinances and Agreements
The cabinet also approved the Off-the-Grid Captive Power Plants Levy Ordinance 2025, as recommended by the Petroleum Division. Additionally, an agreement between Pakistan and the European Union on tariff rates was approved, based on recommendations from the Ministry of Commerce.
PIA Pilots’ Statement Under Scrutiny
The meeting discussed a 2020 statement made about Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) pilots. It was revealed that the statement, made by a former federal minister, was irresponsible and harmed the national image. A fact-finding committee was formed to investigate the statement’s motives and estimate the loss caused to PIA.
Reorganization of Accountability Court-III Approved
The cabinet approved the reorganization of Accountability Court-III in Islamabad, converting it into Special Court (CNS-III). This decision followed the recommendation of the Islamabad High Court and the Ministry of Law.
New Chairman for Karachi Port Trust
Rear Admiral Habib-ur-Rehman was approved as the acting Chairman of Karachi Port Trust for two months. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the immediate appointment of a regular Chairman.
Changes to Provincial Quotas in Medical Colleges
The federal cabinet approved a 25% reduction in the provincial quota for medical and dental colleges managed by the federal government. This change aims to provide better opportunities for students from Islamabad Capital Territory.
Merger of Key Government Ministries Approved
The cabinet approved the merger of the Ministry of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan with the Ministry of Frontier Affairs, based on the Rightsizing Committee’s recommendation.
Cabinet Ratifies Previous Decisions
The cabinet ratified decisions made by the Cabinet Committee on State-Owned Enterprises (January 17, 2025) and the Cabinet Committee on Legislative Cases (December 17, 2024). These decisions pertain to amendments to the Citizenship Act, 1952.
Prime Minister Pays Tribute to Fallen Soldiers
In his opening remarks, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Major Hamza Israr and Sepoy Muhammad Naeem, who were martyred in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The Prime Minister praised their bravery and vowed to uphold their sacrifices.
Political Dialogue Efforts and Opposition Withdrawal
Prime Minister Sharif discussed his recent efforts to engage with opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for dialogue. Despite genuine efforts and extensive talks, PTI backed out of a scheduled meeting on January 28.
Economic Measures and State Bank’s Policy Rate Cut
The Prime Minister also mentioned the State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to lower the policy rate by 1%. This move is aimed at fostering economic growth and stability.
Concerns Over Human Trafficking
Prime Minister Sharif voiced concerns over the rise in human trafficking incidents, which have tarnished Pakistan’s global image. The Ministry of Interior has been involved, and steps are being taken to address this issue.
