Federal Minister for Planning and Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal invites predecessor Asad Umar for a farewell dinner. With this, Ahsan Iqbal has established a new tradition in politics and is gaining praise on social media.
According to details, in a written letter to former Development Minister Asad Umar, Ahsan Iqbal invited him to a farewell dinner and a meeting to discuss development projects initiated by his former counterpart and their continuation in the public interest.
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“On assuming charge of ministry of planning and development, I [Ahsan Iqabl] would like to invite Asad Umar for a farewell meeting/dinner on a date and time of latter’s convenience,” the letter read.
To clarify, Ahsan Iqbal, who has previously served as interior minister, was sworn into Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s cabinet on April 19. He was given the charge of the Ministry of Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives.
“I look forward to a positive response from you. My office will coordinate with your personal staff to schedule the proposed farewell dinner/meeting with you at the earliest,” the letter further added.
While Asad Umar is yet to respond, social media users are praising Ahsan Iqbal for establishing such an honorable tradition. In short, Pakistani politics brims with intense animosity towards the opposing parties. Therefore, such a friendly and dignified gesture from Ahsan Iqbal’s side is indeed welcoming.
By inviting Asad Umar to a farewell dinner, Ahsan Iqbal is honoring Asad Umar’s services as a former federal minister. Moreover, Ahsan Iqbal is portraying that his team is serious about working towards the betterment of Pakistan.
Excellent gesture by @betterpakistan . This is the culture that we direly need to promote in politics. pic.twitter.com/JIKbg4XJFc
— Ansar Abbasi (@AnsarAAbbasi) April 22, 2022
Well done Ahsan Iqbal.
Two good men and good public servants. InshaAllah, looking forward to @Asad_Umar meeting w @betterpakistan. pic.twitter.com/c70UbwxIiP
— Mosharraf Zaidi (@mosharrafzaidi) April 22, 2022
Not a bad start. One hopes the invitee turns up for the dinner & discussion. After all their task was/is to serve the people of Pakistan. @betterpakistan @Asad_Umar pic.twitter.com/CKrjjEFTlG
— aamir ghauri (@aamirghauri) April 22, 2022
Setting a good tradition,Minister Planning @betterpakistan invites former Minister @Asad_Umar over a farewell meeting/dinner. pic.twitter.com/W5mCYx7GOD
— Javed Iqbal (@JavedIqbalReal) April 22, 2022
Slow progress on CPEC
Since becoming federal minister, Ahsan Iqbal has expressed serious concern over the sluggish progress on CPEC-related projects.
The minister showed displeasure over the waste of time and resources over the last four years at a meeting he presided over to review the progress on CPEC projects. The minister directed that progress on CPEC should undergo a review atleast twice a month.
He also noted that further delay in projects will not be acceptable and directed the officials to ensure the expedite the work. Lastly, he expressed displeasure on the lack of progress on the industrial zones of Port Qasim, Islamabad, and Mirpur.
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