Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that a grand economic reconciliation is required for the collective good of the country. "All the political forces would be taken along on all economic issues, like the reformed general sales tax (RGST) and others, to harness economic reconciliation," he said during a meeting with Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, who called on him here on Sunday.

Both the leaders discussed PML-N's 10-point agenda and gas load shedding in the province during the meeting. The prime minister said that establishing peace and improving economic situation in the country were among the top most priorities of his government.

"Efforts for economic reconciliation are vital for creating political stability, conducive to sustainable economic growth", the Prime Minister stressed. He said that the resolution of economic and security challenges should be the top priority of the political parties, and added that eradication of terrorism, religious extremism, resolution of energy crisis in the country and economic welfare of the common man required unconditional support from all political forces in the country.

Gilani said that through the repeal of the authoritarian 17th amendment and passage of the 18th amendment the parliament has been made sovereign and supreme. Chief Minister Shahbaz apprised the Prime Minister about ongoing development projects, especially in the less-privileged areas of the province.

He lauded the policy of the government of taking all political forces on board on all issues.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2011