Islamabad, August 22, 2026: The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) on Saturday reviewed a comprehensive portfolio of development projects, including major road, energy, water, poverty alleviation and education initiatives, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar directing authorities to ensure their timely and effective implementation.
The meeting, chaired by Ishaq Dar, considered the construction of the Khawazakhela–Besham Expressway, electricity distribution efficiency improvement projects in the Lahore, Hyderabad and Peshawar electricity distribution companies (LESCO, HESCO and PESCO), the Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project and the Southern Punjab Poverty Alleviation Project.
The committee also reviewed the Fulbright Scholarship Support Programme along with various water, connectivity and infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening development across different regions of the country.
During the meeting, ECNEC considered revised PC-Is and reviewed progress and compliance relating to ongoing development schemes. The exercise was aimed at addressing implementation challenges, ensuring timely completion of projects and promoting efficient utilisation of development resources.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar directed all relevant ministries, departments and authorities to maintain close coordination and take timely action to accelerate implementation.
He emphasised the need to maintain momentum in the government’s broader development agenda, particularly initiatives aimed at improving national connectivity, strengthening energy infrastructure and promoting inclusive socio-economic development.
The meeting was attended by the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, the Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, secretaries of the Cabinet Division and Ministry of Planning, representatives of the Economic Affairs Division and provincial governments, as well as senior federal and provincial officials.
The review comes as the government seeks to accelerate development spending and improve the execution of major infrastructure and social-sector projects, with connectivity, energy efficiency, human development and regional economic integration remaining key priorities.
