National Assembly is continuing debate on the Federal Budget for the next financial year.

Participating in the budget debate in the National Assembly today, Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the federal and provincial governments should formulate a long-term, sustainable plan based on growth-oriented economic policies to meet the country’s development and defence needs.

He emphasised the need for political consensus on all key issues to effectively address national challenges.

He expressed satisfaction that Sindh and other provinces have agreed to contribute to national defence.

He said this arrangement was reached through consensus within the constitutional framework and democratic norms.

Highlighting the positive impact of the Benazir Income Support Programme on underprivileged segments of society, the PPP Chairman welcomed the increase in its budget allocation.

Referring to Azad Jammu and Kashmir, he urged protesters to end their protest, distance themselves from elements promoting violence, and resolve issues through peaceful means and dialogue.

He said all issues should be resolved through political means.

The PPP Chairman also proposed granting interim representation to Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan in Pakistan’s Parliament.