Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday met Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari to discuss the federal budget, development projects, political affairs and the evolving regional situation, with both leaders reaffirming the need for close cooperation between the federation and provinces.

Bilawal was accompanied by Senator Sherry Rehman and MNA Syed Naveed Qamar during the meeting at the Prime Minister’s House, according to an official statement.

The two leaders reviewed the progress of federal development projects underway in Sindh and discussed measures to further strengthen coordination between the federal and provincial governments.

During discussions on the federal budget, PM Shehbaz underscored that effective coordination and close cooperation between the federation and provinces were indispensable for national development and economic progress.

Both leaders agreed that sustained collaboration between federal and provincial institutions was essential for the timely completion of projects of national importance and for ensuring improved public services and facilities for citizens.

The meeting also included an exchange of views on political developments and other matters of mutual interest.

Bilawal paid tribute to PM Shehbaz and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting global peace amid the evolving situation in the Middle East.

The PPP chairman also thanked the prime minister for his support during the government formation process in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema were also present at the meeting.