Interim ministers assume charge

ISLAMABAD: After an oath taking ceremony last night, the members sworn in to comprise the caretaker government was officially unveiled. Today many of them assume charge. Here is what some of them have said regarding their new appointments.

Caretaker federal cabinet takes oath

Interim Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Jamal Shah, who is a renowned artist, film producer and director said he was looking forward to working on the betterment and development of the cultural and artistic communities in the country.

He said he accepted this portfolio “as a challenge” and would make all efforts to fulfil his new duties.

According to the Associated Press, Shah held meetings with Secretary Fareena Mazhar and other officers of the Heritage and Culture Division, and is being briefed on its working mechanisms.

The finance ministry meanwhile welcomed caretaker Finance Minister Dr Shamshad Akhtar. She met with finance secretary and other senior officials and also received a detailed briefing on the country’s economic situation and trends of major financial economic indicators.

On assuming her new role, Akhtar said she would focus on “ensuring fiscal discipline, promoting investment, and bolstering efforts to address income inequality.”

Caretaker Human Rights Minister Khalil George, meanwhile, welfare of the people was a priority of the interim setup.

In an interview he said he plans to “leave exemplary guidelines for the next government about the existing challenges in different sectors.”

Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani reportedly said he would pursue close relationships with all major powers. This would include the United States, China and the European Union. He also hopes to improve relations with India and the Gulf region.

As a veteran diplomat, he said he would continue to follow the nation’s foreign policy that has evolved through consensus.

Who is who in caretaker federal cabinet