Lahore, 09 July 2024: President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasized the necessity of adopting a holistic approach and implementing prudent financial policies to steer the country toward development. Speaking at the Professor Waris Mir Memorial Seminar in Lahore, President Zardari highlighted the need for modernizing various economic sectors, particularly agriculture. He announced the government’s plan to tax agricultural income in line with International Monetary Fund (IMF) conditions, with provincial governments taking the lead in taxing large landholders based on their profitability and expenditures.
Addressing a large audience of journalists, academicians, political workers, and civil society members, President Zardari acknowledged the empowering role of the media in amplifying public voices. However, he also cautioned against media groupings and the influence of a strong religious lobby aiming to create divisions in Muslim societies. Emphasizing his support for press freedom, he urged vigilance against agenda-driven information.
Reflecting on personal and political challenges, President Zardari paid tribute to the late Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed for her sacrifices for democracy. He reiterated the Pakistan People’s Party’s commitment to democracy despite facing pressures and assassination attempts, expressing firm faith in divine providence.
The President also honored the contributions of the late Professor Waris Mir to democracy and journalism, and commended Faisal Mir and Hamid Mir for continuing their father’s legacy. Senior Journalist Hamid Mir called for an end to political victimization and adherence to the 1973 Constitution, while Senior Journalist Sohail Warraich lauded the President’s political wisdom and reconciliatory efforts, urging political reconciliation to address the country’s pressing issues.
