Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday, accompanied by a high-level party delegation, to present a set of demands amid rising political and economic stakes ahead of the federal budget.

This marked the second meeting between the two leaders in just two weeks, sparking speculation over behind-the-scenes negotiations between the PPP and its coalition partner, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).

Although the official details of the meeting were not disclosed, sources suggest the PPP’s demands are significant and likely related to key budget allocations that would benefit the party’s political priorities.

The meeting, described officially as a “consultation,” is being interpreted as a strategic move by the PPP to leverage its role in the coalition and gain influence over the upcoming federal budget.

According to insiders, Bilawal’s proposals could potentially reshape the fiscal outlook, and the timing — so close to budget announcements — has drawn considerable attention from political observers.

In addition to economic matters, the leaders reportedly discussed national security and regional tensions, particularly in light of the recent Pahalgam incident in Indian-administered Kashmir.

The PPP delegation expressed full support for Pakistan’s armed forces, emphasizing political unity in the face of India’s alleged aggressive posture. Prime Minister Sharif strongly condemned what he called India’s “provocative actions,” warning that Pakistan is ready to deliver a strong response if necessary.

He criticized India’s attempt to blame Pakistan for the Pahalgam incident without evidence and denounced New Delhi’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty as a form of “water warfare.” Sharif announced plans to raise the issue at the United Nations, vowing to expose what he called India’s “true face” to the international community.

The meeting also finalized a key decision in the power sector, with agreement to transfer control of electricity distribution companies to the provinces within the next two months.

Senior PPP figures, including Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, and former Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf, participated in the meeting and reportedly endorsed the federal government’s reform agenda — a rare show of unity amid ongoing coalition tensions.

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