President Zardari meets PM Shehbaz as debate over new provinces continues

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met on Saturday to discuss the country's political, economic and security situation, the premier's office reported. Upon his arrival at the president's residence in Lahore's Model Town, Prime Minister Shehbaz warmly greeted President Zardari, followed by a thorough briefing on his recent trip to Turkey.

During his visit, the Prime Minister took part in the 31st Conference of Parties, where he highlighted Pakistan's commitment to climate action. The two leaders discussed the importance of collaboration among allied parties, ongoing consultations, and advancements in public welfare projects, according to the Prime Minister's Office.

Both President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated their dedication to working together to ensure economic stability and development in the nation. This meeting occurred just two days after Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the president's residence. Despite media speculation that Naqvi and the president discussed the potential creation of new provinces during their meeting in Nawabshah, the President House denied this claim, stating that discussions focused on national security and regional matters.

The last known meeting between President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz took place on October 10, prior to the federal government imposing emergency and governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In August, Prime Minister Shehbaz visited the president to provide an update on the Makkah defense pact signed between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey earlier that month.