By Naveed Siddiqui
ISLAMABAD: In a significant development within Pakistan’s political landscape, the coveted position of Minister of Foreign Affairs has been entrusted to Ishaq Dar, a prominent figure within the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The appointment came as part of the 19-member federal cabinet led by newly elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took oath on Monday. President Asif Ali Zardari administered the oath of office to the members of the cabinet, marking the formal commencement of their roles in shaping the nation’s governance. Notably, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), a key ally of the PML-N, opted out of participating in the federal cabinet.
The ceremony, held at the prestigious President House in Islamabad, commenced with the rendition of the national anthem, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran, signifying the solemnity of the occasion.
According to details disclosed in a summary provided by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to President Zardari, the cabinet composition includes a diverse array of talents, comprising 12 Members of the National Assembly (MNAs), three Senators, and three technocrats. The portfolios span crucial areas such as Defence, Planning and Development, Law and Justice, Railways, and Information and Broadcasting, among others.
Notable figures making a return to ministerial positions include Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, and Azam Nazeer Tarar, alongside others who have been entrusted with key responsibilities.
While speculation had been rife regarding the allocation of portfolios, Muhammad Aurangzeb’s potential appointment as head of the finance ministry gained prominence, indicating a potential focus on economic stability and fiscal management within the new administration.
The cabinet’s inaugural meeting, held at the Prime Minister’s House, marked the commencement of collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the nation’s priorities and challenges.
Key Figures and Portfolios:
Ishaq Dar: Minister of Foreign Affairs
Khawaja Muhammad Asif: Defence, Defence Production, Aviation
Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry: Planning, Development and Special Initiatives
Rana Tanveer Hussain: Industries and Production
Azam Nazeer Tarar: Law and Justice, Human Rights
Chaudhry Salik Hussain: Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development
Abdul Aleem Khan: Privatisation, Board of Investment
Jam Kamal Khan: Commerce
Amir Muqam: States and Frontier Regions, National Heritage and Culture
Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari: Railways
Attaullah Tarar: Information and Broadcasting
Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui: Science and Technology, Federal Education and Professional Training
Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh: Maritime Affairs
Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada: Housing and Works
Musadik Masood Malik: Petroleum, Power
Muhammad Aurangzeb: Finance, Revenue
Ahad Khan Cheema: Economic Affairs, Establishment
Mohsin Naqvi: Interior, Narcotics Control
Shaza Fatima Khawaja: Minister of State
The composition of the new federal cabinet reflects a blend of experience, expertise, and fresh perspectives, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s multifaceted challenges and advancing its developmental agenda.
