Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed that water storage and hydroelectric power projects be treated as the leading priorities in development budget allocations, warning that public funds will only be committed to projects with assured outcomes.

Chairing a review meeting on the current year’s Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and proposed allocations for the next fiscal year, the PM said better-performing ministries would receive development funds on a priority basis.

He also urged maximum encouragement of public-private partnerships in development projects.

The meeting was briefed on progress across major national water and hydropower initiatives, including the Dasu, Diamer-Bhasha, and Mohmand Dam projects.

Sharif praised Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb for the successful issuance of Panda Bonds and their positive reception in international markets. He also commended the performance of the Railways, IT, and Power ministries during the session.