Cashless Economy: PM Shehbaz Pushes Digital Payments, Backs Stronger UN Role
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urges banks to accelerate Pakistan’s cashless economy, reaffirms support for the United Nations, and condemns attacks on Saudi Arabia.
Cashless Economy, Shehbaz Sharif, Digital Payments, Pakistan Economy, BISP, United Nations, Saudi Arabia, Mobile Banking
Cashless Economy remained a top priority as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged banks and financial institutions to expand digital payments across Pakistan. He also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and regional peace.
Chairing a meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister praised the economic team for its progress in promoting digital payments over the past year. He directed officials to strengthen awareness campaigns and encourage merchants to adopt QR code-based payment systems.
Shehbaz Sharif called the increase in mobile banking users a major achievement. The number of users rose from 95 million to 137 million within one year. He also instructed authorities to process all overseas remittances through digital channels.
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The prime minister welcomed the digital transformation of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) payment system. He said the new system offers greater transparency, efficiency, and convenience for beneficiaries.
Officials told the meeting that the number of merchants accepting digital payments increased by 300% during the past year. They added that 10 million BISP beneficiaries now receive payments through digital wallets. They also reported that 92% of overseas remittances arrived through digital channels.
Officials said an independent third-party review of the cashless economy initiative is underway. They expect to submit the final report and recommendations in November.
Later, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met Michelle Bachelet, a candidate for the post of United Nations Secretary-General, at the Prime Minister’s House. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch also attended the meeting.
The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for multilateralism. He stressed the need to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter. He also urged the international community to implement UN resolutions and international treaties. In addition, he called for balanced progress in peace, security, development, and human rights.
Michelle Bachelet praised Pakistan’s longstanding contributions to the United Nations. She also acknowledged the country’s continued role in promoting regional and global peace.
In a separate statement, the prime minister strongly condemned the recent attacks on Saudi Arabia. He described them as a violation of the Kingdom’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s full solidarity with Saudi Arabia and pledged continued support for efforts that promote peace, stability, and mutual understanding across the region.
